Source-Driven Car Guide
A Hybrid Successor to the Chiron
Bugatti has introduced its latest marvel, the Bugatti Tourbillon, a formidable hybrid vehicle that aims to surpass its predecessor, the Bugatti Chiron. With the Chiron’s price tag of $3.3 million and 1,500 horsepower, the Tourbillon steps into the limelight with a staggering starting price of $4 million and an impressive output of 1,800 horsepower.
Not All-Electric, Despite Industry Trends
Although the automotive industry is moving towards electrification, Bugatti’s new model is not fully electric. This decision comes after Bugatti’s separation from the Volkswagen Group and merger with Rimac in 2021, forming Bugatti Rimac. Despite Rimac’s expertise in electric supercars, exemplified by the Rimac Nevera, CEO Mate Rimac clarified that an all-electric Bugatti was never the plan. Instead, the goal was to maintain the essence of Bugatti’s gasoline-powered legacy, enhanced with hybrid technology.
Engineering Excellence: A Blend of Power and Tradition
The Bugatti Tourbillon carries forward the tradition of monstrous powerplants with a 16-cylinder gas engine, developed in collaboration with British race car engineering firm Cosworth. This engine, coupled with three electric motors, delivers a combined output of at least 1,800 horsepower. The absence of turbochargers in this naturally aspirated engine is compensated by the electric motors, which contribute over 800 horsepower independently.
“We wanted to make the most exciting, most emotional combustion engine possible, and that is high revving, naturally aspirated,” Rimac explained.
A Nod to Horological Craftsmanship
The Tourbillon’s interior design is inspired by traditional mechanical craftsmanship. Named after the tourbillon mechanism in watches, the car’s instrument display mimics mechanical watch dials, emphasizing precision and timeless elegance. A unique feature is the central speedometer, which has two needles like clock hands: one for speed and another for engine revolutions per minute.
“One of the first things we did when the new company was formed was to visit watchmakers in Switzerland,” Rimac told CNN, highlighting the influence of horological artistry on the car’s design.
Modern Technology Meets Classic Design
While the Tourbillon remains true to Bugatti’s classic design ethos, it does incorporate modern technology discreetly. A retractable display screen with Apple CarPlay is available, maintaining a sleek, timeless interior when not in use. This cautious approach to technology ensures that the car’s aesthetic remains enduringly elegant.
“We think, really, how will this product look in 50 years, 100 years,” said Rimac, emphasizing the timeless design philosophy.
Exclusive Production in France
Continuing Bugatti’s tradition of exclusivity, only 250 units of the Tourbillon will be produced. Each car will be meticulously assembled at Bugatti’s factory in Molsheim, France, maintaining the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and luxury.
In conclusion, the Bugatti Tourbillon represents a harmonious blend of traditional power, cutting-edge hybrid technology, and timeless design, setting a new benchmark in the world of luxury hypercars.
