Even if a car bears the Ferrari badge it is still not spared of criticism. This is the case of its California convertible. Some said the car was too soft for its own good. Ferrari took that to heart and the replacement will be more focused and have a sharper design.

According to Car and Diver, the successor car will be more powerful than the present model. On the other hand, we are still a few years away from the launch date, because the California recently received an update package consisting of more power and better handling. Regardless, let’s take a look at what the successor car will boast.

Featuring a new twin-turbo V8, the new car will have more power than ever before. This engine is being especially developed for the California replacement and a few other models belonging to the Fiat Group. It is expected that some 500 horsepower will be delivered by the new unit, overtaking the latest California version by 10 horses.

Another strong point will be the presence of a KERS system, similar to those used in Formula 1 racing. The first car to use this system will be the Enzo replacement set to be reveled later this year. This system basically captures energy when the brakes are applied, fueling a lithium-ion battery pack. The battery in turn powers an electric motor, which boosts performance figures when the time is right. It is expected that about 100 horsepower more will be delivered this way.

The folding hard-top has every change of remaining, but you can expect it to be lighter. In an effort to reduce weight, engineers will employ carbon fiber and aluminum in a generous manner. They aim for the total mass to be below the current 4123 pounds the California holds. After all, they presence of a hybrid system must be balanced, else weight will remain the same or even be higher. Odds are they will succeed in this endeavor.

At this moment, we only have wild guesses to work with, but some early estimates say the successor car will reach 60 mph in 3.5 seconds or less. Top speed is said to be placed around 200 mph. If those numbers are true, the 458 Italia and F12 Berlinetta will have a new worthy companion to cruise to streets with.

Design wise, the job be left in the care of Flavio Manzoni, the same one who is in charge of delivering the Enzo’s replacement. Unlike the latter, however, which will be designed 100 percent by Ferrari, the California’s successor will be a joint effort with Pininfarina. Thus, we can expect to see prettier shapes, as well as a few retro cues. Also, this should silence those who preached the end of Ferrari’s relation with Pininfarina.

Anyway, let’s hope the new car will live up to expectations. Even if the California was criticized, it sold more than 8000 units, of which 70 percent belonged to new customers. Care must be taken not to drive people away.