10/3/2024
A new foundation for a new era: the Tourbillon’s platform
In the fourth episode of the ‘A New Era’ docuseries – available on YouTube today – the French marque delves into the heart of what makes the Tourbillon¹ a true masterpiece and a forerunner of a new era of hyper sports cars: its completely new Bugatti platform. Carefully crafted to express the pursuit of engineering excellence, this cutting-edge design has allowed Bugatti to redefine its future, setting the foundation for many years to come.
Across Bugatti’s 115-year legacy, the brand has always been built on pushing boundaries, and the creation of a new platform for the next generation of hyper sports car is no exception. While the Veyron and Chiron² platform had formed the backbone of Bugatti for two decades, the Tourbillon presented the perfect opportunity to redefine the pinnacle of automotive excellence once again with an all-new architecture.
For Bugatti, starting with a clean sheet of paper was not a necessity – it was
an opportunity. The team used this chance to rethink every element of the car.
Allowing the Tourbillon to emerge as something entirely unique, something that
is even more emotional and dynamic than its legendary predecessor.
One of the most groundbreaking aspects of the Tourbillon, the powertrain
combining a naturally aspirated V16 engine and three electric motors represents
a marvel of engineering and packaging. The entirely new platform allowed the
Molsheim team to integrate the powertrain and all other of its technical
features in the most optimal way.
At the front of the car, five of a total eight radiators are strategically
positioned. Two radiators on the outside channel air directly to the engine,
while the ones in the center direct airflow from Bugatti’s iconic horseshoe
grille to cool the cabin and electrical components with ultimate efficiency.
Behind the luggage compartment, the electric axle – comprising two 250kW
electric motors – has been seamlessly integrated. This setup not only provides
full four-wheel drive capability but also allows for torque vectoring, which
dramatically improves performance and handling by diverting torque to either
front wheel as needed.
Core to the new platform is a centrally housed, T-shaped battery that delivers
800 HP of electric power and acts as a structural part of the monocoque.
Positioned in the middle for a perfectly balanced center of gravity, the 24kWh
battery unit enables over 60 km of range in pure electric mode. This new
architecture also delivers a fixed seating position with a movable pedal box and
steering wheel, minimizing both the height and weight of the Tourbillon.
At the rear lies the heart of the Tourbillon – the naturally aspirated V16
paired with a third, rear electric motor. The sheer length of this engine
required Bugatti’s engineers to employ a new approach to packaging, which
brought the engine closer to the driver. By relocating the fuel tanks to the
sides, the brand was able to keep the hyper sports car’s wheelbase and length
under control while maximizing interior space. The integrated crash structure
within the huge diffuser provides further weight optimization, avoiding the need
for a complete rear beam.
More than just a hyper sports car; the Tourbillon is a statement of intent, a
signal that Bugatti’s commitment to excellence continues to guide its future.
The platform on which it is built marks a new chapter for Bugatti, one defined
by unprecedented levels of optimization and performance. As Bugatti moves into
its next era, this platform will remain fundamental to everything the brand does
from now on.Watch the full episode ‘A New Era: Foundation of a new Chapter’ on the official
Bugatti YouTube
Fuel consumption and emissions
1 Tourbillon: This model is currently not subject to directive 1999/94/EC, as type approval has not yet been granted.
2 Chiron: WLTP fuel consumption, l/100 km: low phase 44.56 / medium phase 24.80 / high phase 21.29 / extra high phase 21.57 / combined 25.19; CO2 emissions combined, g/km: 571.64; efficiency class: G
