Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the renewal of the shareholder agreement between Exor and Piero Ferrari, which strengthens governance continuity for Ferrari as it prepares to launch its first electric vehicle, amidst industry challenges [3][5][17]. Group 1: Shareholder Agreement Renewal - Exor, holding approximately 20% of Ferrari's shares, and Piero Ferrari, with about 10.6%, together control over 48% of the voting rights. The renewed agreement extends until January 4, 2029, with automatic three-year renewals unless terminated [5][8]. - The new agreement allows both parties to coordinate their positions on matters requiring shareholder votes and establishes mutual preemptive rights for share transfers, ensuring governance stability [8][9]. - This renewal is seen as a strategic move to minimize potential disagreements between major shareholders during a critical transition to electric vehicles [5][17]. Group 2: Electric Vehicle Transition - Ferrari's CEO, Benedetto Vigna, emphasizes a parallel approach to fuel, hybrid, and electric vehicles, with hybrids accounting for 51% of sales last year. The company plans to maintain a diverse product lineup [17][18]. - The first electric model, Elettrica, is expected to start deliveries in October 2026, following delays. The second electric model's launch has been postponed to at least 2028 due to insufficient demand in the high-performance luxury electric market [17][18]. - The governance stability provided by the renewed agreement is crucial for Ferrari to navigate the challenges of electric vehicle development while maintaining its brand's exclusivity and pricing power [18].

Core Viewpoint - The luxury car market is facing unprecedented challenges due to the waves of electrification and digitalization, leading to the absence of top brands like Porsche, Bentley, Lamborghini, and Rolls-Royce at the Chengdu Auto Show [1][4]. Group 1: The Current State of Ultra-Luxury Brands - Ultra-luxury brands are experiencing a silent transformation, with historical sales in China peaking, such as Rolls-Royce's nearly 50% growth in 2021 and Bentley's 30% contribution from the Chinese market in 2022 [4][6]. - Some legendary luxury brands have quietly exited the market or undergone restructuring, such as Maybach being absorbed by Mercedes and Hummer transitioning to electric vehicles [6][8]. - Brands like Maserati and Infiniti are facing severe challenges in the Chinese market, with Maserati's 2023 import sales down 12% and Infiniti's sales dropping from 48,000 units in 2017 to 4,237 in 2022 [9][8]. Group 2: The Impact of Electrification - The electrification wave is forcing ultra-luxury brands to choose between embracing electric technology or sticking to traditional powertrains, with Porsche leading the way with over 40% of its global sales from electric models in 2024 [14][16]. - Rolls-Royce's first electric model, Spectre, focuses on luxury and seamless integration of electric technology, while Lamborghini aims for full electrification by 2028 with its Lanzador concept [18][20]. - The transition to electric vehicles is redefining the essence of luxury, with quietness becoming a new competitive point, as seen in Rolls-Royce's Spectre [23]. Group 3: Changing Consumer Demographics - The average age of luxury car owners in China has dropped to 35, significantly younger than in Western markets, indicating a shift in consumer preferences towards technology and personalization [24][26]. - The increasing proportion of female luxury car owners is influencing design language, as more women entrepreneurs and executives become customers [26][28]. - The market is diversifying, with Chinese consumers favoring SUVs and long-wheelbase models, while Western markets prioritize driving experience and customization [28][30]. Group 4: The Future of Luxury Brands - The rise of domestic brands like Li Auto and Zeekr is reshaping the ultra-luxury market, as they leverage a deep understanding of local consumer preferences in electrification and digitalization [33]. - Luxury brands must innovate their storytelling and customer engagement strategies to connect with younger consumers who value experiences over traditional heritage [34].