Bugatti opted to follow up on the Veyron with a
further evolution of the same format. What resulted is the Chiron, and we're
glad for it. But that wasn't always the plan.
The Alsatian automaker also considered going with a
front-engined sedan initially called the Galibier and subsequently tipped for
production under the name Royale in reference to the Type 41 luxury saloon from
the 1920s and '30s.
That's the apparent inspiration behind this design
study by Israel-born, Japan-based designer Arthur B. Nustas – the same guy who
gave us the Porsche 939 design. This one takes its cues from one of Bugatti's
most legendary designs – the Type 57 Atlantic, of which only four were made and
three survived.
Nustas' design blends elements from the Atlantic's
form with modern flourishes from the Chiron, resulting in a grand tourer that
would put the likes of the Ferrari 812 Superfast and Rolls-Royce Wraith to
shame.
The hood is almost comically long, and we can't
fully get on board with the trend among designers to blank out the side
windows. But the design is rather stunning, both inside and out, and would make
a fine counterpart (or successor) to the Chiron if Bugatti ever decides to take
a different route.
