02:13 05-01-2026

Ferrari's predictive active aerodynamics patent for road cars

Ferrari keeps bringing racing logic to the street, and this time it’s tackling active aerodynamics. A patent that reporters at SPEEDME.RU came across describes predictive control of aerodynamic elements: instead of waiting for the driver to brake or make a sudden steering input, the system aims to anticipate the downforce needed over the next few seconds and adjusts the aero in advance.

Active wings and flaps have long been familiar on fast cars. Typically they work reactively: braking calls up a high-drag, high-downforce setting for stability, while acceleration and cornering switch to predefined modes. Ferrari suggests a change of mindset: rely on a forecast rather than a reaction, with algorithms estimating the upcoming driving phase and the downforce demand that comes with it.

The patent doesn’t explicitly state which pieces will be controlled, though the most obvious candidate is an adjustable rear wing. In a low-drag position it trims resistance and favors speed; under braking it can move to a high-drag angle, adding rear-axle downforce and improving stability. If the system starts doing this just before the driver actually leans on the tires, there is, at least in theory, stability to be gained—and a little pace on track. Done right, this kind of preemptive behavior tends to feel natural, sharpening responses without catching the driver out.

It’s worth noting that a patent alone doesn’t mean the technology will reach production soon. Still, in Ferrari’s playbook it looks like the next step for road-going sports cars in 2025–2026: less lag, more intelligent preparation for each maneuver.