By In a stunning expose that has sent shockwaves through the automotive world, Bugatti has pulled back the curtain on its latest masterpiece: the Bugatti Tourbillon. This groundbreaking hybrid hypercar is set to redefine the boundaries of performance and luxury, carrying a hefty price tag of $4 million and boasting an earth-shattering 1,800 horsepower.
The Tourbillon, named after the intricate mechanism found in high-end mechanical watches, is poised to succeed the iconic Bugatti Chiron. While many industry experts anticipated Bugatti’s next move to be an all-electric vehicle, especially given the company’s 2021 merger with Croatian electric hypercar manufacturer Rimac, the Tourbillon takes a different approach.
Mate Rimac, CEO of the newly formed Bugatti Rimac, explained the rationale behind the hybrid powertrain: “We wanted to create something that retained the spirit of mechanically powered Bugatti cars, just better. Our goal was to make the most exciting, most emotional combustion engine possible.”
At the heart of the Tourbillon lies a massive 16-cylinder gasoline engine, developed in collaboration with British racing engineering firm Cosworth. This powerplant is complemented by three electric motors – one at the rear and two at the front – capable of generating at least 800 horsepower on their own. The result is a combined output of at least 1,800 horsepower, a figure that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in a road-legal vehicle.
Unlike its predecessor, the Chiron, the Tourbillon’s engine is naturally aspirated, foregoing turbochargers in favor of a high-revving design that promises to deliver an unparalleled auditory and driving experience. This decision underscores Bugatti’s commitment to preserving the essence of traditional high-performance engines while embracing the benefits of electrification.
The Tourbillon’s interior is a testament to Bugatti’s appreciation for mechanical artistry. The instrument cluster draws inspiration from mechanical watch dials, featuring a unique dual-needle speedometer that displays both vehicle speed and engine RPM. This design choice reflects the meticulous attention to detail that Bugatti is known for.
Despite its focus on mechanical heritage, the Tourbillon doesn’t shy away from modern conveniences. A retractable display screen offers Apple CarPlay functionality, striking a balance between timeless design and contemporary technology. “We think about how this product will look in 50 years, 100 years,” Rimac noted, explaining the decision to keep digital displays discreet.
The Bugatti Tourbillon offers an electric-only range of approximately 37 miles, catering to environmentally conscious drivers. However, purists can opt to run the gasoline engine continuously, ensuring the full Bugatti experience is always available.
Production of the Tourbillon will be limited to just 250 units, each handcrafted at Bugatti’s historic facility in Molsheim, France. With a starting price of around $4 million, the Tourbillon is not just a car – it’s a statement of automotive excellence and a collector’s item in the making.
As the automotive industry continues its march towards electrification, the Bugatti Tourbillon stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of high-performance engineering. It represents a bold vision for the future of hypercars, where cutting-edge technology and time-honored craftsmanship coexist in perfect harmony.
