Upon first glance, the latest hypercar showcases a notable resemblance to the Veyron and Chiron. However, Bugatti’s newest creation emanates sophistication, might, and luxury. The Tourbillon, diverging from the naming tradition after racers, is called after the tourbillon—a horological breakthrough from 1801 designed to augment the accuracy of timekeeping devices.
The presentation of the Tourbillon signifies the inaugural release in Bugatti’s partnership with Rimac, and the announcement occurred at the Bugatti headquarters in Molsheim. Official Test Driver of Bugatti, Andy Wallace, was at the helm for the premiere, marking the facility’s most significant gathering since the festivities commemorating the brand’s 110th year in 2019. The automobile features a premier frame, an aerodynamically optimized exterior, an innovative V16 engine, and a hybrid drive system. It can sprint from zero to 60 mph in just two seconds and reach 248 mph in under 25 seconds. Engaging the Speed Key allows a top speed of 276 mph, while the ultimate velocity is electronically regulated to 236 mph.
This pioneering Bugatti model debuts a fresh petrol power unit, departing from convention with a naturally aspirated V16 engine paired with a hybrid drive system. Created in collaboration with the British automotive engineering gurus at Cosworth, the unassisted 8.3-liter V16 engine delivers 1,000-hp, boasts a light construction at 555 lbs, and revs up to a 9,000 rpm redline. The supercar further integrates three electric motors, with two powering the front axle and one at the rear, providing an additional 800-hp.
“The Bugatti Tourbillon is the embodiment of our relentless pursuit of excellence. In the Tourbillon, we celebrate the heritage of Ettore Bugatti, merging the grandeur, extravagance, and dynamism that define our brand identity,” declared Christophe Piochon, President of Bugatti.
Drawing inspiration from the realm of timekeeping and intricate artisanship, the automobile has been “designed and crafted with the precision of Swiss watchmakers,” as per Bugatti’s announcement. Rejecting the prevalent digital dashboard designs, this extraordinary car displays 600 elaborately crafted parts, reflecting the complexity of a timekeeping device. The structure sets itself apart with its use of exotic materials and jewels such as titanium, sapphires, and rubies, asserting its uniqueness among its peers in the luxury car arena.
Featuring Bugatti’s iconographic horseshoe grille, a prominent center ridge, and the hallmark bi-color split, the supercar includes dihedral doors with an electric operation. The cabin is decorated with knurled aluminum switches and a fusion of crystal glass and aluminum, executed with meticulous attention to detail, while the auditory system embeds within the panels to diminish mass and ensure a unified design.
With a beginning price of $4 million (€3.8 million), Bugatti is poised to produce a limited run of 250 units of the Tourbillon, expecting to commence deliveries by the year 2026.
Image Credit: Blueberry Funzan @ YouTube
