Luxury automaker Bugatti is making headlines again. After unveiling its latest revolutionary hypercar, the brand is reportedly hinting that a new grandiose project is already in the works. This time, it could be a model that would mark a spectacular return to the roots for the Molsheim brand.
A new powertrain opening up new perspectives
During the presentation of the Tourbillon, Bugatti's latest creation, Frank Heyl, the brand's design director, made an intriguing revelation. The new V16 hybrid powertrain developed for this model would offer unprecedented flexibility. This feature would allow Bugatti to consider designing vehicles beyond traditional mid-engine hypercars.
This statement immediately piqued the interest of enthusiasts and industry experts. Indeed, it suggests the possibility for Bugatti to diversify its range and venture into new automotive territories.
A return to basics inspired by the legendary Type 57 SC Atlantic
Among the possibilities discussed, one in particular stands out: the creation of a front-engined Grand Tourer, directly inspired by the legendary Type 57 SC Atlantic. This icon of the 1930s, considered one of the most beautiful cars ever built, could thus be reborn in a modern and technologically advanced form.
Frank Heyl explicitly mentioned this legendary model: “Look at the Type 57 SC Atlantic: it has a front engine. So maybe later, but for now, we are super happy to have taken this direction.”
A prestigious legacy to perpetuate
The Type 57 SC Atlantic holds a special place in Bugatti history. Produced in just four examples in the 1930s, three of which survive today, it is considered the brand's most valuable car on the secondary market.
Its influence on Bugatti design remains significant, as evidenced by the creation in 2019 of La Voiture Noire, a unique model directly inspired by the Atlantic and considered the most expensive new car ever produced.
A prudent diversification strategy
If the idea of โโa new GT seems attractive, Bugatti remains cautious in its communication. Mate Rimac, the brand's CEO, did not directly confirm the project during his interview with Autocar. He nevertheless left the door open to this possibility, recalling that โBugatti has not always produced only sports carsโ.
This approach demonstrates Bugatti's desire to remain faithful to its hypercar DNA, while exploring new avenues to expand its range and attract an ever more demanding clientele.
A revolutionary hybrid powertrain
At the heart of this speculation is Bugatti's new hybrid powertrain. Powered by the Tourbillon, this system combines an 8.3-liter V16 engine with three electric motors, for a staggering total output of 1,775 horsepower.
This exceptional performance allows the Tourbillon to reach 0 to 100 km/h in just 2 seconds and to have a top speed of 444 km/h. The use of this powertrain in a GT would offer unprecedented performance in this category of vehicles.
The technical challenges of a modern GT
Creating a modern Grand Tourer inspired by the Type 57 SC Atlantic would, however, pose numerous technical challenges. Bugatti engineers would have to adapt the hybrid powertrain to a front-engine layout, while preserving the brand's characteristic balance and performance.
In addition, the design should succeed in combining the timeless elegance of the Atlantic with the modern aesthetic codes of Bugatti, a task that promises to be exciting for Frank Heyl's team.
The impact on the luxury automobile market
If this project comes to fruition, it could have a significant impact on the luxury car market. A modern Bugatti GT would directly compete with established models like the Rolls-Royce Wraith or the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, while offering an unmatched level of performance and exclusivity.
This foray into a new segment would also allow Bugatti to diversify its customer base and strengthen its leading position in the field of ultra-luxury automobiles.
The hypothesis of a new Bugatti Grand Tourer inspired by the legendary Type 57 SC Atlantic is generating a lot of interest in the automotive world. If it comes to fruition, this creation could mark a turning point in the history of the brand, combining prestigious heritage and cutting-edge technologies. It remains to be seen whether Bugatti will dare to take the plunge and reinvent one of its most iconic models for a new era.
SRQ Backlot