Ferrari's former chairman publicly trashed the company's new electric car, bad news for Ferrari's EV launch and brand image.

• The former chairman said the new Ferrari EV is so bad that even the Chinese won't bother copying it.
• The comment is a public swipe at current Ferrari leadership and its electric strategy.
• Ferrari is trying to move into EVs while keeping its luxury sports car image, and insider criticism makes that harder.
• Italian executives rarely hide their feelings, and his reaction made clear he sees the EV as a threat to the Ferrari legend.

Outlook: Expect more scrutiny of Ferrari's EV rollout and pressure on management to defend the design.