While Bugatti has ruled out making the Chiron’s successor a fully electric vehicle, it embraces electrification cleverly—delivering breathtaking performance without sacrificing the visceral experience only a combustion supercar can offer.
In the latest episode of a video series chronicling the Tourbillon’s development, Bugatti’s CEO highlights the sophistication of the hypercar’s new hybrid powertrain.
A Bold New Engine with Classic Spirit
Departing from the brand’s signature quad-turbo W16 architecture, the Tourbillon introduces a naturally aspirated W16 engine. By ditching the turbos, Bugatti sharpens throttle response and vastly enhances the engine’s soundtrack—a notable improvement given the Veyron and Chiron’s historically muted acoustics.
To regain the instantaneous torque traditionally delivered by turbos, the Tourbillon incorporates three electric motors: one paired with the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission at the rear, and two at the front. This arrangement not only enables all-wheel drive but also grants advanced torque-vectoring capabilities, improving handling precision.
Remarkably, this electrified setup doesn’t inflate curb weight as seen in hybrids like BMW’s latest M5. Instead, the entire drivetrain—including engine, motors, and transmission—weighs just 430 kg (948 lbs), lighter than the Chiron’s standalone W16 engine. This weight efficiency owes much to the elimination of four turbos, the use of the rear motor as a starter, and an innovative T-shaped battery pack design, where the floorpan forms the battery pack’s sides.
More Power, Higher RPMs, and a Touch of EV Range
The Tourbillon’s power figures are staggering: 1,775 horsepower (1,800 PS) at a thrilling 9,000 rpm, eclipsing the Chiron’s 1,470 hp (1,500 PS) peak at a more subdued 6,700 rpm. Despite its performance focus, the hybrid system also offers an electric-only range of about 37 miles (60 km), though few may choose to exploit this quietly on such a supercar.
Bugatti collaborator Mate Rimac reveals that packaging two motors, cooling systems for the battery, and luggage space under the frunk posed significant engineering challenges. Fans eagerly await the next installment to see how Bugatti and Rimac’s team continue to conquer these obstacles.
The Tourbillon exemplifies Bugatti’s mastery at marrying cutting-edge hybrid technology with the emotional resonance of a pure combustion engine, redefining what a hypercar can be.