manettino
A rotary switch in some Ferrari cars, mounted on the steering wheel, used to adjust the electronics governing suspension settings, traction control, electronic differential, and change speed of electronic gearbox.
manettino: Ferrari's steering wheel mode selector dial
A manettino is a rotary switch mounted directly on the steering wheel of certain Ferrari models, typically positioned on the left spoke for thumb operation. It allows the driver to adjust real-time the behavior of multiple electronic systems: suspension stiffness, traction control sensitivity, electronic differential lock percentage, and automatic gearbox shift aggressiveness. The name derives from Italian manetta, meaning lever or handle, diminished to manettino.
The dial usually offers between four and eight discrete positions, each labeled with modes such as Wet, Sport, Race, or CT Off (full traction control disable). Rotating the switch changes parameters sent to the car's engine control unit and chassis management computers within milliseconds. This design keeps the driver's hands on the wheel during mode changes, avoiding the distraction and delay of menu navigation through a center display.
Engineering and Integration
The manettino's electrical contacts connect via slip rings or a rotary encoder embedded within the steering column, allowing continuous rotation without wire twist. Contact-based designs use spring-loaded wipers; encoder-based systems provide redundancy through dual-channel outputs for safety certification. Ferrari began featuring the manettino prominently in the 360 Modena (1999) and subsequent models, where it became a signature interface reflecting the brand's focus on driver engagement and direct vehicle control.
The effectiveness of the manettino depends on the underlying electronic systems it commands. In wet conditions, lower traction control thresholds prevent wheel spin but reduce acceleration response; in Race mode, intervention is minimal, shifting responsibility to driver input. The electronic differential lock percentage directly affects cornering behavior: higher lock values reduce understeer but increase risk of oversteer if combined with aggressive throttle application.
Other manufacturers have adopted similar steering wheel mode selectors, though Ferrari's manettino remains the most recognized implementation. The concept appeals to drivers who want granular control without taking their hands from the wheel, a preference that underscores the philosophy of modern supercar design: technology that enhances rather than replaces driver involvement.