Bugatti has taken the automotive world by storm with the unveiling of its latest masterpiece, the Bugatti Tourbillon. This extraordinary hybrid supercar comes with a staggering price tag of $4 million, set to replace the already impressive $3.3 million, 1,500 horsepower Bugatti Chiron.
In an era where the automotive industry is pivoting towards electrification, many anticipated that Bugatti’s new model would follow suit. Especially after Bugatti’s merger with Rimac, a Croatian company celebrated for its all-electric Rimac Nevera supercar, an electric Bugatti seemed imminent. However, Mate Rimac, the CEO of the newly formed Bugatti Rimac, had different plans. He remained committed to preserving the core spirit of Bugatti through a hybrid approach that combines immense power with cutting-edge technology.
The Bugatti Tourbillon retains the iconic 16-cylinder gasoline engine, developed in partnership with the British racing engineering firm Cosworth. This powerhouse is augmented by three electric motors—one at the rear and two at the front—delivering a combined output of at least 800 horsepower. The result is a jaw-dropping total of 1,800 horsepower, ensuring the Tourbillon’s place at the pinnacle of performance cars.
Unlike its predecessor, the Chiron, which utilized four turbochargers, the Tourbillon’s engine is naturally aspirated. This decision underscores Bugatti Rimac’s goal of creating an emotionally engaging and thrilling driving experience characterized by high revving and natural engine aspiration.
“We wanted to make the most exciting, most emotional combustion engine possible,” Rimac stated. “And that is high revving, naturally aspirated.”
The Tourbillon’s interior design is a tribute to traditional mechanical engineering, with the car named after a complex gear system used in high-precision mechanical watches. This inspiration is reflected in the instrument display, which is modeled after watch dials. The central speedometer showcases two needles: one indicating the vehicle’s speed and the other displaying the engine’s revolutions per minute.
“One of the first things we did when the new company was formed, I took the whole team to Switzerland and we visited a few watchmakers,” Rimac shared.
While embracing its mechanical roots, the Tourbillon does not shy away from modern technology. It features a concealed display screen with Apple CarPlay capability that appears only when needed. Bugatti’s design philosophy aims to create timeless interiors, avoiding screens that can quickly become obsolete.
“We think, really, how will this product look in 50 years, 100 years,” said Rimac. “And it’s clear that, if you have a screen, it won’t look that great.”
The hybrid system of the Tourbillon enables up to 37 miles of electric-only driving before the gasoline engine takes over. However, drivers have the flexibility to run the gasoline engine continuously if desired.
As with all Bugattis, the Tourbillon will be assembled with meticulous attention to detail at the brand’s boutique factory in Molsheim, France. Production is limited to just 250 units, ensuring the exclusivity and craftsmanship that Bugatti is renowned for. Starting at approximately $4 million, the Bugatti Tourbillon stands as a testament to unparalleled performance, luxury, and innovation, representing a harmonious blend of traditional mechanical prowess and modern hybrid technology.
