Google executive Benjamin Sloss created headlines in the automotive world when he became the proud owner of a Ferrari 599XX Evo last Sunday at the Italian Grand Prix. His purchase was not without a good reason.

Sloss won the rare 599XX Evo with a bid of €1.4 (S$2.21) million. The winning bid will benefit the victims of the earthquake struck region of Emilia–Romagna, Italy. The Emilia–Romagna region is home to towns and cities like Modena, Maranello and Fiorano - places that are closely associated to the Prancing Horse.

An extremely happy Sloss, accepted the bright yellow car (not our preffered colour for a Prancing Horse) during an event at the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. The car was presented by Ferrari's boss Luca di Montezemolo, accompanied by his Formula One drivers. The 599XX Evo is powered by a 740bhp V12 equipped with active aerodynamics and is a track specific car that could lap the Nurburgring in a quick 6:58.16.

Besides the 599XX Evo other auction items included front bodywork and a V8 engine from a retired Formula One racecar and a racing suit worn by former F1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella.