Bugatti Tourbillon is the first car from Bugatti to feature a hybrid powertrain, marking the official end of the W16 powertrain.
Bugatti has unveiled the Tourbillion, marking a new chapter in the prestigious brand’s legacy. Succeeding the Chiron in their lineup of renowned hypercars, the Tourbillion introduces several significant changes. It most notably departs from the W16 engine used since the Veyron, adopting a hybrid configuration with an all-new V16 motor.
The car’s name is inspired by the sophisticated spring mechanism of luxury watches, designed to enhance timekeeping precision. With a staggering price of GBP 3.2 million (approx. Rs 34 crore, excluding excise and taxes), the Tourbillion is limited to just 250 units. Remarkably, all units have already been sold.
Bugatti Tourbillon: Powertrain
Replacing a powerhouse like the W16 quad-turbo engine, which delivers a staggering 1,600 bhp, is no small feat. To match the W16’s performance, Bugatti has embraced hybrid technology for the Tourbillion. This new model is equipped with an 8.3-liter naturally-aspirated V16 engine, capable of producing 1,000 horsepower on its own. Complementing this, the Tourbillion features three electric motors from Rimac – two positioned at the front and one at the rear – adding 800 bhp. This hybrid system generates a combined total of 1,800 bhp, making the Tourbillion the most powerful combustion-engined car currently available.
The Tourbillion has a 25 kWh battery pack, allowing it to travel up to 60 km in pure EV mode. This configuration enables the Tourbillion to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2 seconds, reach 200 km/h in under 5 seconds, and hit 300 km/h in less than 10 seconds. Its top speed is quoted at 445 km/h, surpassing the Chiron’s maximum speed without its ‘special’ key. Bugatti also suggests that the Tourbillion’s true top speed potential exceeds this figure, considering the Chiron managed to break the 480 km/h barrier with less power.
The Tourbillon: Design
The Tourbillon stands out as one of the most exquisite cars ever designed, following the C-Line design principle seen in the Veyron and Chiron. It features the iconic horseshoe grille and a central spine that divides the car into symmetrical halves. Every surface, inlet, and ridge on the Tourbillon is meticulously crafted, enhancing its aerodynamics and cooling for its powerful engine.
The rear wing remains hidden even at top speeds, maintaining its functionality. The large rear diffuser starts at the end of the cabin. It extends to the car’s rear, allowing the active spoiler to operate efficiently at any speed without significantly altering the car’s aerodynamic properties. The Tourbillon also boasts dihedral doors for easy cabin access. Despite its hybrid powertrain, the car weighs just 1,995 kg, lighter than the Chiron. This weight reduction is achieved through a custom carbon shell inspired by motorsport technology.
Bugatti Tourbillon: Interior
The interior of the Tourbillon is a masterpiece, not only due to the luxurious materials but also because of its intricate mechanisms. Departing from modern trends, it emphasizes physical buttons and mechanical technology. The centerpiece of the cabin is the instrument cluster, a mechanical marvel crafted by Swiss watchmakers. Comprising 600 components, it incorporates titanium, sapphire, and ruby. The steering wheel is mounted on a fixed hub, ensuring the gauge cluster remains stationary. Additionally, there is a small screen that can retract into the dashboard when not in use.
The Tourbillon sets new standards in the world of luxury performance, rivaling the Koenigsegg Jesko and Pagani Utopia. It stands out for its exclusivity, jaw-dropping price, mind-numbing performance, and exquisite design and materials.
