Today, we had a unique first opportunity to get up-close and personal with the new Bugatti Chiron hypercar and the people that played a key role in its development. Ahead of its Geneva Motor Show debut tomorrow we are proud to bring you the latest on the Bugatti Veyron’s successor.
To start with what everybody was waiting for: the new Bugatti Chiron comes with a 8.0-litre W16 engine. Thanks to some clever new set of turbochargers, it produces 1,500hp and 1,600Nm which is available virtually immediately (peak torque is delivered from around 2,000 rpm all the way to the red line).
0-100 km/h in done in less than 2.5 seconds, 0-200 km/h in less than 6.5 and 0-300 km/h in under a brainmelting 13.6 seconds. Braking is of course equally important and for that purpose Bugatti fitted discs that are 20 mm larger in diameter front and rear and forged one-piece calipers. This F1-inspired brakes along with the airbrake provide some impressive stopping power. 100-0 km/h brake distance is only 31.3 meters. 200-0 km/h is done in 125 meters and 300-0 km/h is done in 275 meters.
The Bugatti Chiron’s top speed is limited to 380 km/h in Handling Mode and 420 km/h when the Top Speed mode is engaged with the second key. Talking to Bugatti CEO Wolfgang Durheimer, the Top Speed mode is certainly possible but only under very strict and monitored conditions. The company’s test drivers are still working towards a new record top speed (currently held by the Bugatti Veyron Supersports at 431 km/h) with the Bugatti Chiron.
The Bugatti Chiron has a four-wheel drive configuration but comes with a so-called drift mode to make it easier to drift. Handling is very important and the new handling mode makes the Chiron more dynamic than any Bugatti before it. Switching between modes is easily done with the controls on the steering wheel.
The Chiron looks stunning and is inspired by the Bugattis from yesteryear. It also carries elements first seen on the Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo that was introduced last year. The most important design feature is the typical Bugatti C or ‘swoosh’. This is clearly visible on the exterior side lining, running through the interior along the roof and continues between the two seats to the center console.
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The design is also based on form follows performance. The new rear is not only very aerodynamic but also allows the Chiron to release its engine heat as efficiently as possible. The C along the side captures and creates the perfect air flow.
The heart of the cockpit is the steering wheel with a large centrally located analogue speedometer flanked by two digital displays. The left one displays power, torque and other performance-related info. Meanwhile, the right one displays the infotainment menu, rear view camera and other convenient elements.
The Bugatti Chiron features a new Bugatti logo on the front made of 970 sterling silver. The vehicle is developed using the highest quality, pure and authentic materials including aluminium, titanium, carbon fibre and leather. A special luggage set is available as an optional extra that fits under the bonnet.
The Bugatti Chiron is limited to 500 pieces and is expected to have an eight-year life cycle. Production will be around 50 pieces a year to begin with, but Mr. Durheimer hopes to increase production to 60-65 Chirons a year over time. The Bugatti Chiron costs 2.4 million euros excluding tax. Bugatti already received pre-orders for 30% of the 500 models.
Awesome set of pics from the unveiling, great set up by Bugatti!