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Bugatti has unveiled the intricate engineering of its new hyper sports car, the Tourbillon, showcasing a groundbreaking hybrid powertrain that redefines performance. Detailed in the latest episode of Bugatti’s ‘A New Era’ documentary series, available on the Bugatti YouTube channel, the system pairs a massive, naturally aspirated V16 engine with three powerful electric motors. This innovative approach challenges conventional hybrid design by using electrification to enhance, rather than replace, the combustion engine, promising an unparalleled emotional driving experience.
Key Highlights
- Radical Powertrain: The Tourbillon features a naturally aspirated 8.3-liter V16 engine combined with three electric motors, creating a sophisticated, high-performance hybrid system.
- A New Hybrid Philosophy: Instead of downsizing, Bugatti uses the electric motors as “enablers” to unlock the full potential and emotional response of the high-revving V16 engine.
- Lighter and Faster: Despite the added complexity of its hybrid architecture, the Tourbillon is lighter than its predecessor, the Chiron, while delivering superior performance, a higher top speed, and increased luggage capacity.
- Advanced E-Mobility: The car operates on an 800-volt system, includes an innovative 25kWh T-shaped battery pack for optimal weight distribution, and offers an all-electric range of more than 60km.
A New Philosophy in Hybrid Performance
At the core of the Tourbillon’s design is a philosophy that electric power should amplify the soul of the combustion engine. According to Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac, the high-tech electric powertrain serves to enable the “very emotional combustion engine.” This synergy provides the instantaneous torque and response modern performance demands, while the V16 delivers the unique soul and sound that only a naturally aspirated engine can offer. The electric motors eliminate the need for multiple downshifts to find peak power, offering immediate thrust to complement the V16’s roar.
Advanced Powertrain Engineering
The complete powertrain is a marvel of engineering, combining the 8.3-liter V16 with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, a torque-vectoring differential, and a powerful 250-kilowatt electric motor integrated with the engine. Remarkably, this entire rear assembly weighs only 430 kilograms, matching the weight of the Chiron’s engine alone.
Complementing this is a front electric axle with two additional independent motors. The multifunctional electric motors also serve as starters and generators, doing away with traditional 12-volt systems and allowing the battery to be charged by the engine during operation.
Innovative Design and Weight Reduction
The Tourbillon’s development was a holistic process focused on intelligent integration and weight optimization. A key innovation is the use of 3D-printed, topologically optimized suspension components that are 45% lighter than previous units.
The 25kWh T-shaped battery pack is another breakthrough, comprising over 1,500 individual cells with advanced oil cooling. It is seamlessly integrated into the car’s chassis structure, not merely installed within it. This clever architecture enhances structural rigidity, optimizes weight distribution, and helps achieve the Tourbillon’s compact, low-slung silhouette while still accommodating the large V16 engine and increased luggage space.
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