Bugatti unleashes new V16 hybrid to replace Chiron

AE IT'S not every day that a truly all-new Bugatti is introduced. The brand has consistently been a pioneer in the hypercar space, and the new Bugatti Tourbillon is no different to the Chiron it replaces, in that it represents a huge leap forward for this most exotic of automotive genres. And in pretty much every department.

- Jordan Katsianis

Once again, this is a car defined by the numbers. But the means by which they are achieved are very different to before, and arguably even more impressive. Gone is the W16 engine, replaced by an all-new, naturally aspirated V16. For good measure, it's assisted by a sizable hybrid module made up of three electric motors and a 25kWh battery pack. The combined power output peaks at a dizzying 1,774bhp, with Bugatti confirming the Tourbillon will also offer a 37-mile electric range.

The powerplant has been developed in collaboration with British engine wizards Cosworth, and by the time the Tourbillon starts being built in 2026, it will be the first production car in over 85 years to feature a V16 engine. The 8.3-litre powerplant produces 987bhp on its own - the same output as the original Bugatti Veyron, which had a quad-turbo layout.

The three motors leverage the technical prowess of electric supercar maker Rimac, after its integration with Bugatti as part of the Volkswagen Group. The first is sandwiched between the engine and transmission, with the other two powering the electric front axle. Without a physical connection between the combustion engine and front wheels, Bugatti has been able to use the free space in the central tunnel to house the battery and many of its electronics.

The hybrid set-up runs an 800V electrical system and features the latest advances in motor tech, being among the most power-dense units available. These help to produce the remaining 788bhp, to create the Tourbillon's peak output.