“We chose to call this model LaFerrari,” declared Ferrari’s President, Luca di Montezemolo, “because it is the maximum expression of what defines our company – excellence. Excellence in terms of technological innovation, performance, visionary styling and the sheer thrill of driving. Aimed at our collectors, this is a truly extraordinary car which encompasses advanced solutions that, in the future, will find their way onto the rest of the range, and it represents the benchmark for the entire automotive industry. LaFerrari is the finest expression of our company’s unique, unparalleled engineering and design know-how, including that acquired in Formula 1.”

LaFerrari packs 950bhp from a hybrid powertrain, that combines a 789bhp 6.3-litre V12 and a 161bhp electric motor at the rear, enabling it to hit 0-62mph in less than three seconds, 0-124mph in less than seven seconds and the top speed is more than 217mph. It can lap Ferrari’s Fiorano test track in under one minute 20 seconds, making it five seconds faster than the Enzo.

LaFerrari is 4702mm long, 1992mm wide and 1116mm tall with a 2665mm wheelbase. The weight is 1,255kg distributed 41 percent front and 59 percent rear.

The HY-KERS system weighs 140 kg, of which 62 kg is a centrally-mounted lithium-ion battery pack attached under the floorpan, giving the car a 35mm lower centre of gravity when compared to the Enzo. The battery recharges under braking and when the petrol power unit produces more torque than required.

Only 499 cars will be built, each costing around £1.1 million.