Ferrari Marketing Chief Resigns Following EV Launch Backlash
Ferrari's chief marketing and commercial officer, Enrico Galliera, has resigned after 16 years with the company, just weeks following criticism over the launch of the automaker's first all-electric vehicle, the Luce.
The company announced this week that Galliera will leave his position, with former BMW Italy head Massimiliano Di Silvestre set to replace him in July.
Ferrari expressed gratitude for Galliera's contributions and stated that he had
"decided to embark on a new chapter in his professional journey - a decision shared with the company some time ago."
The Luce, unveiled in May, faced significant criticism, although Ferrari did not reference the vehicle's launch in its statement regarding Galliera's departure.
Ferrari's CEO, Benedetto Vigna, acknowledged Galliera's impact, saying he
"has played a significant role in the company's growth and in strengthening the Ferrari brand worldwide."
Galliera's responsibilities included managing the selection of clients eligible to purchase Ferrari's highly coveted vehicles.
Vigna added,
"He has the gratitude of the entire Ferrari team and my personal best wishes for the future."
The BBC has reached out to Galliera for comment.
Galliera's Tenure and Ferrari Milestones
Since assuming his role in 2010, Galliera has been involved in numerous key moments for Ferrari.
In 2013, the company launched LaFerrari, its first production hybrid hypercar combining a petrol engine with an electric motor.
Ferrari went public on the New York Stock Exchange in 2015 and subsequently on the Milan stock exchange in 2016.
Controversy Surrounding the Luce
The $640,000 (£485,552) Luce's launch generated widespread negative reactions and internet memes.
The vehicle's design, created by iPhone designer Sir Jony Ive, was notably criticized by Ferrari's former chairman, Italy's deputy prime minister, and transport minister Matteo Salvini.
The day after the Luce's unveiling, Ferrari's shares dropped by 8%.
