Robinhood Co-Founder Buys Ferrari Luce EV

Robinhood co-founder Baiju Bhatt has announced his intention to purchase the Ferrari Luce, an electric vehicle that has sparked controversy among brand enthusiasts. Bhatt, whose net worth is estimated at $6.6 billion, stated his decision was largely influenced by his admiration for famed designer Jony Ive, whose firm LoveFrom contributed to the car's development.

Bhatt acknowledged the polarizing nature of the Luce, noting that Ferrari's foray into electric vehicles marks a significant departure from its V-12 engine legacy. He expressed appreciation for the car's "unexpected elements," including its interior design and exterior panels, and its "unexpected balance of new and vintage."

The Ferrari Luce is described as a four-door, five-seat electric model boasting 1,035 horsepower and a starting price of approximately $640,000. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in about 2.5 seconds. Despite its performance capabilities, Bhatt humorously suggested it would likely be driven by his wife and serve as a "baby-mobile."

For his personal daily driver, Bhatt plans to continue using Ferrari's new manual-shifting 12Cilindri Manuale, expressing enthusiasm for the return of the "third pedal" after a 14-year hiatus for manual transmissions in Ferrari models. Bhatt indicated he would disregard online criticism, preferring to experience the car himself before forming a final judgment.