After receiving notice of a lawsuit filed against them on Wednesday, Ferrari have changed the name of their F150 slightly and have replied to Ford’s complaint agreeing that the “F150” designation (used as the abbreviated version of the complete name, which is Ferrari F150th Italia) never has, nor ever will be used as the name of a commercially available product.
Ferrari’s 2011 contender will now be known as the Ferrari F150th which signifies the 150th anniversary of the Unification of Italy, a prestigious event for the people of Italy.
A press statement released by the Maranello-based squad reads as follows:
On the subject of the name of the new Ferrari Formula 1 car, the Maranello company wishes to point out that it has sent a letter of reply to Ford, underlining the fact that the Ferrari F150th Italia designation (used as the abbreviated version of the complete name, which is Ferrari F150th Italia) never has, nor ever will be used as the name of a commercially available product
In fact, it has always been the case in the history of Scuderia names, that they represent the nomenclature of a racing car project and are linked to a chronological order with a technical basis, or in exceptional cases, to special occasions. This year, the decision was taken to dedicate the car name to a particularly significant event, the 150th anniversary of the Unification of Italy.
For these reasons, Ferrari believes that its own contender in the forthcoming F1 championship cannot be confused with other types of commercially available vehicle of any sort whatsoever, nor can it give the impression that there is a link to another brand of road-going vehicle. Therefore it is very difficult to understand Ford’s viewpoint on the matter.
Despite this and to further prove it is acting in good faith and that it operates in a completely correct manner, Ferrari has decided to ensure that in all areas of operation, the abbreviated version will be replaced at all times with the full version, Ferrari F150th Italia.
This statement is expected to be accepted by Ford, who will no doubt cease any legal action against Ferrari. Further news on this topic will be posted when it becomes apparent.
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