Bugatti Tourbillon: A New Era of Hypercars

Meet Lathiya
3 min readJun 21, 2024

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At a dazzling premiere in Molsheim, France, Bugatti introduced the Tourbillon, the successor to the famed Chiron. This entirely new hypercar signifies a substantial shift from Bugatti’s iconic W16 engine. Partnering with Mate Rimac, the visionary behind the all-electric Nevera, Bugatti has integrated electrification into the Tourbillon, making it a revolutionary addition to their prestigious lineup.

Side view of the new Bugatti Tourbillon

Hybrid Prowess

Defying predictions, the Tourbillon is not fully electric. Instead, it adopts a hybrid strategy similar to Ferrari’s SF90 Stradale and McLaren’s Artura, with a distinctive Bugatti flair. At its core lies an 8.3-liter naturally aspirated V16 engine, developed with British race engine expert Cosworth. This engine is combined with a robust electric powertrain, including a front e-axle with two electric motors and an additional rear motor, delivering an astonishing 1,800 hp. This hybrid system provides instant torque and responsiveness, enhanced by a 25kWh battery that offers an all-electric range of over 37 miles.

Rear view of the Tourbillon

Merging Tradition with Modernity

The Tourbillon’s hybrid configuration showcases Bugatti’s dedication to blending heritage with cutting-edge technology. It retains the raw excitement of a combustion engine while incorporating the advantages of electrification. This combination appeals to enthusiasts who revere Bugatti’s legacy while demonstrating the capability of electric power to achieve exceptional performance.

Tribute to Bugatti’s Heritage

Drawing inspiration from Bugatti’s 115-year legacy, the Tourbillon honors founder Ettore Bugatti’s pursuit of automotive excellence. It pays homage to iconic models like the Type 57SC Atlantic, Type 35, and Type 41 Royale, encapsulating elegance, performance, and luxury. Departing from the tradition of naming core models after racing drivers, the Tourbillon’s name reflects its intricate mechanics and timeless sophistication.

Enduring Design

The Tourbillon’s design emphasizes lasting appeal, featuring a completely analogue instrument cluster crafted by Swiss watchmakers. Every component is meticulously selected to ensure the car becomes a cherished heirloom, akin to a classic Swiss timepiece. The design also prioritizes superior aerodynamics, with every surface and intake meticulously refined for optimal performance.

Front view of the Tourbillon

A New Era for Bugatti

The Tourbillon embodies Bugatti’s commitment to merging tradition with innovation. Its hybrid powertrain, rich legacy, and meticulous design make it a worthy successor to the Chiron, offering enthusiasts a unique and exhilarating driving experience. The Tourbillon’s debut marks a new era for Bugatti, setting a high standard for future hypercars in both performance and sophistication.

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