A New Chapter in Bugatti's Legacy
Bugatti's decision to launch a hybrid model may seem unexpected, especially given the industry’s strong shift towards fully electric vehicles. After its merger with Rimac in 2021, many anticipated an all-electric Bugatti. However, CEO Mate Rimac had other plans. His vision was to create a car that retains the essence of Bugatti’s legendary gasoline-powered models, but with a modern twist: an insanely powerful plug-in hybrid.
The Bugatti Tourbillon boasts a 16-cylinder gas engine designed in collaboration with Cosworth, a British race car engineering firm. This engine, devoid of turbochargers, is naturally aspirated to deliver a high-revving, emotional driving experience. Complementing the gas engine are three electric motors, contributing to a combined output of at least 1,800 horsepower. This setup allows the Tourbillon to merge traditional automotive craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology seamlessly.
The Heart of the Machine: Engineering Marvel
One of the most striking features of the Bugatti Tourbillon is its powertrain. The 16-cylinder engine, a hallmark of Bugatti’s engineering prowess, is paired with three powerful electric motors - one at the rear and two at the front. These motors alone produce an impressive 800 horsepower, ensuring that the car’s performance remains unmatched even without the turbocharged boost found in previous models like the Chiron.
The decision to forego turbochargers in favor of a naturally aspirated engine was driven by a desire to create a more visceral, engaging driving experience. According to Mate Rimac, the goal was to develop the most exciting combustion engine possible, one that thrills drivers with its high-revving nature and raw power.
A Symphony of Design and Functionality
The Bugatti Tourbillon’s design is a tribute to old-fashioned machinery, with its name inspired by the intricate gears of a mechanical watch. This homage to traditional engineering is evident in the car’s interior, where the instrument display mimics the dials of a mechanical watch. The central speedometer features two needles, akin to clock hands, with the long hand indicating speed and the short hand showing the engine’s revolutions per minute.
This blend of classic and contemporary design elements extends to the car’s functionality as well. While past Bugattis have eschewed digital screens, the Tourbillon includes a reasonably large display screen with Apple CarPlay. However, this screen remains hidden until the driver requests it, maintaining the car’s timeless aesthetic. Bugatti designers have deliberately avoided permanent screens, considering how quickly they can become outdated.
Exclusivity and Craftsmanship
Bugatti has always been synonymous with exclusivity, and the Tourbillon is no exception. Only 250 units will be produced, each assembled by hand at Bugatti’s small factory in Molsheim, France. This meticulous approach to craftsmanship ensures that every Bugatti Tourbillon is a masterpiece of automotive engineering and design.
The starting price of $4 million reflects not only the car’s advanced technology and luxurious features but also its rarity. Owning a Bugatti Tourbillon is not just about possessing a high-performance vehicle; it’s about becoming part of an exclusive club of automotive enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of tradition and innovation.
Embracing the Future While Honoring the Past
The Bugatti Tourbillon represents a bold step forward for the brand, embracing hybrid technology while honoring its rich heritage. The car’s ability to travel about 37 miles on electric power alone showcases Bugatti’s commitment to sustainability without compromising performance. Drivers also have the option to run the gas engine continuously, offering flexibility based on their driving preferences.
Mate Rimac’s vision for Bugatti is clear: to create vehicles that are not only powerful and luxurious but also timeless. By integrating modern technology with traditional design principles, Bugatti has crafted a car that will remain relevant and admired for decades to come.
The Road Ahead: Bugatti’s Continued Innovation
As Bugatti continues to innovate, the Tourbillon sets a new benchmark for what’s possible in the world of high-performance luxury cars. It challenges the notion that the future of automotive excellence lies solely in electric vehicles, proving that hybrid technology can deliver an equally compelling driving experience.
The Bugatti Tourbillon is more than just a car; it’s a statement of Bugatti’s enduring legacy and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. With its blend of raw power, sophisticated design, and cutting-edge technology, the Tourbillon is poised to become a classic in its own right.
