Bugatti has taken its pursuit of automotive excellence to a new level with the unveiling of the Tourbillon. This long-awaited successor to the Chiron boasts a gasoline-electric drivetrain generating a mind-blowing 1,800 horsepower, showcasing the pinnacle of performance and technology. The Tourbillon’s design is a testament to Bugatti’s commitment to pushing boundaries. While it shares a similar mission with the Chiron – cruising at breathtaking speeds with comfort and safety – the Tourbillon is a completely new creation. Its proportions are reminiscent of its predecessor, but beneath the sleek exterior lies a symphony of innovative engineering.
One of the most striking features is the 3D-printed suspension components. This cutting-edge technology not only reduces weight but also enhances the car’s handling and responsiveness. The Tourbillon’s design language is a masterful blend of modern sophistication and timeless elegance. The dihedral doors, reminiscent of a bird of prey preparing for flight, open with the press of a button on the key fob, revealing an interior that prioritizes craftsmanship over a deluge of screens. Bugatti’s philosophy is to create cars that transcend trends and remain aesthetically pleasing for decades to come, much like a vintage high-end Swiss watch compared to a new Apple Watch.
In keeping with this philosophy, the instrument cluster is a marvel of engineering, featuring over 600 meticulously crafted parts, including titanium and gemstones like sapphire and ruby. The placement in front of the steering wheel spokes ensures optimal visibility for the driver. While a single Apple CarPlay-compatible screen is discreetly hidden in the center stack, Bugatti has taken a bold step by ditching conventional speakers. Instead, exciters integrated throughout the car use the interior panels as sound-emitting surfaces, resulting in a weight-saving innovation that delivers a unique auditory experience.
The Tourbillon’s powertrain is a testament to the evolution of hybrid technology. A new 8.3-liter V16 engine, paired with two front-mounted electric motors (one per wheel), a third electric motor for the rear axle, and a 25-kilowatt-hour oil-cooled battery pack, combine to unleash a total of 1,800 horsepower. The 16-cylinder engine contributes 1,000 horsepower, while the electric motors add a combined 800 horsepower. This sophisticated system delivers all-wheel-drive with full torque vectoring, allowing for smooth, controlled acceleration and precise handling. Notably, the Tourbillon can also travel for nearly 40 miles solely on electricity, showcasing its commitment to sustainability without sacrificing performance.
Despite the added complexity of the hybrid system, Bugatti has managed to make the Tourbillon lighter than its non-electrified predecessor, the Chiron. This feat was achieved through a combination of weight-saving innovations, including a carbon composite structure and 3D-printed aluminum suspension parts. Handcrafted in Molsheim, France, the Bugatti Tourbillon is limited to 250 units, making it a rare and coveted piece of automotive artistry. Pricing starts at an impressive 3.8 million euros (approximately $4 million USD), before any optional extras are added. Bugatti’s Sur Mesure department provides a unique opportunity for buyers to personalize their Tourbillon, working directly with in-house designers to select from a range of color and material combinations, creating a truly one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
