The 1800HP Bugatti Tourbillon is Not Just a Prettier Chiron

This next-generation Bugatti hyper sports car is powered by an all-new 8.3-liter naturally aspirated V16 engine – engineered with the help of Cosworth – paired with a front e-Axle with two electric motors and one electric motor mounted at the rear axle.

2024 Bugatti Tourbillon

• Power output: 1,800 HP

• Maximum speed: 380 km/h (236 mph)

• Mass: ~1,995 kg

• Electric-only range: ~60 km

• 0-100 km/h (62 mph): 2.0s

• Price: £3.2 million

The Tourbillon is also set to become the world’s quickest road car, launching from 0-100km/h in a claimed 2.0 seconds flat, reaching 200km/h in less than 5.0sec, 300km/h in less than 10.0sec and 400km/h in less than 25.0sec, before it reaches a governed top speed of 445km/h.

For comparison, the Chiron Super Sport can complete 0-100km/h in 2.4sec and 0-300km/h in 12.1sec, before topping out at 439km/h.

The key instrument behind the Tourbillon’s figures is the new V16 PHEV powertrain that replaces the Chiron’s 8.0-litre quad-turbo (1177kW in Super Sport) and develops a combined 1342kW of power (1800hp).

Bugatti Tourbillon Engine & Performance

The Tourbillon features a complex plug-in hybrid powertrain that is surprisingly lightweight compared to the Chiron's turbo W16 engine. The V16 engine, developed with Cosworth, can rev up to 9000 rpm and delivers 1000 horsepower. When combined with the three electric motors, the total power output reaches a massive 1800 horsepower.

The car is equipped with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, allowing it to go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2 seconds, and reach a top speed of 445 km/h, according to Bugatti. In addition to its impressive performance, the Tourbillon has an electric-only range of about 60km, making it suitable for quiet city driving.

Bugatti Tourbillon Sterring Wheel Design

“This is where the art of watchmaking comes into play,” Bugatti’s Director of Design Frank Heyl said in an exclusive interview with R&T. “Our research has shown that our customers are really into watches, mechanical watches. With mechanical watches, the art is in the complications. How many more complications can you put into a mechanical watch?”

It’s also about the transparency of the watch because the wearer wants to see the hand-made complications and experience the genius.

The 1800-horsepower Tourbillon's hybrid features speedometer, fuel gauge, pressure gauges, and tachometer designed to resemble and function like a large mechanical Swiss-made watch. The company created what it calls “a completely analog instrument cluster crafted by Swiss watchmakers and finished with the same care and attention you find in the world’s greatest timepieces.”

Design & Exterior

The recently unveiled Bugatti Tourbillon marks a significant departure from the brand's previous offerings. While retaining the undeniable Bugatti DNA, the Tourbillon boasts a revolutionary design that pushes the boundaries of automotive aesthetics and aerodynamic efficiency.

Drawing Inspiration from Nature

Bugatti designers took clear inspiration from the peregrine falcon, the fastest bird on Earth. The Tourbillon's form reflects this influence, featuring a low, sculpted nose that merges seamlessly into a sharply tapered rear end. This creates a sleek, aerodynamic profile that promises exhilarating performance.

Evolution of the Bugatti Line

The Tourbillon retains the iconic C-shaped line that defines the side profile of many Bugattis. Here, however, the line adopts a sharper, more angular character. This stylistic evolution conveys a sense of dynamism and forward motion, even when the car is stationary.

Function Follows Form

Every aspect of the Tourbillon's exterior is meticulously crafted for optimal aerodynamic performance. Smooth surfaces, strategically placed air intakes, and carefully integrated vents all contribute to minimising drag and maximising downforce. This focus on functionality doesn't compromise aesthetics; the resulting form is a testament to Bugatti's design prowess.

A Departure from Tradition

Perhaps the most striking design element of the Tourbillon is the absence of a large rear wing, a signature feature on previous Bugatti models. The Tourbillon achieves exceptional downforce through a combination of underbody sculpting and other innovative aerodynamic features. This eliminates the need for a visually intrusive wing, resulting in a cleaner, more elegant overall design.

Classic Bugatti Touches

The Tourbillon retains the brand's heritage with several signature design elements. The iconic horseshoe grille remains a prominent feature at the front, albeit with a more modern and aggressive interpretation. The quad LED headlights continue the tradition of sophisticated yet powerful lighting, likely incorporating adaptive technology for optimal visibility at high speeds.

The Bugatti Tourbillon is a remarkable feat of automotive design. It seamlessly blends elegance, performance, and technological innovation, solidifying Bugatti's position at the forefront of automotive design. With official high-resolution images and videos on the horizon, the world eagerly awaits a closer look at this exceptional car.