Future Ferrari cars may have driver seats that can change positions within cabin

Imagine a car that adapts to your driving needs, shifting seamlessly between left-hand drive, right-hand drive, and even a central driving position.

Ferrari is aiming to make this a reality with its recent patent submission for an adjustable driver’s seat system, revolutionising the way we interact with our vehicles. CarBuzz first found the patent at the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The concept behind Ferrari’s patent is both ingenious and practical. By mounting the driver’s seat, steering wheel, steering column, and pedal box as a single unit, they can move laterally across the car’s cabin on horizontal rails. This design opens up a world of possibilities, from enhancing the driving experience to improving functionality in various scenarios.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this system is its adaptability to different driving scenarios. For example, it could allow an engineer or coach to sit alongside the driver during testing, then switch to a central driving position for solo competition. For grand touring enthusiasts, the ability to switch sides of the car they drive on when crossing continents adds a new level of convenience and comfort. Additionally, this system could benefit driving instructors, allowing them to maintain control of the pedals while a trainee handles the steering.

Ferrari’s new system patent (Carbuzz)

To achieve this level of flexibility, Ferrari’s system relies on a steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire system. While these systems typically provide road feedback to drivers, Ferrari has developed a solution that maintains a connected feel, ensuring a dynamic driving experience. This also means that the system may be limited to single-seat track cars or vehicles with easily removable second seats, as a fixed passenger seat would interfere with the lateral movement of the driver’s seat.