Bugatti is working on a new series-production hypercar set to continue the over-the-top legacy of the Veyron and the Chiron. While little is known about its styling, the very first camouflaged prototype was photographed out in the open, giving us the best look yet at the hybrid V16-powered beast. Previously, Bugatti had released a soundbite of the new V16 engine that will power it, while Mate Rimac had teased the model under a veil.
The first photo of the camouflaged
prototype being loaded into a box truck was shared on the German Car Forum,
reportedly taken by someone working for Rimac. However, that image was quickly
taken down from the forum for unknown reasons. Fortunately, an even more
revealing shot was published by Top Gear, leading us to believe that Bugatti
might follow up with official teasers. The yet-to-be-named Bugatti is instantly
recognizable, thanks to the familiar proportions and the large C-shaped line
along its profile. A closer look reveals some notable differences from the
Chiron, particularly in the greenhouse design and the more dramatic sculpting
of the fenders. Large air intakes dominate the sharper front end, which is
expected to retain the brand’s signature horseshoe grille.
The new Bugatti hypercar retains a
generously-sized active rear spoiler that deploys only when extra downforce is
needed, likely doubling as an air brake. This wing is accompanied by a massive
diffuser, integrating a set of tailpipes. The slim LED taillights resemble
those of the Bugatti La Voiture Noire one-off, giving off some McLaren P1
vibes. Finally, the aerodynamically-optimized rear deck bears resemblance to
that of the Chiron Super Sports, leaving little room for the rear glass. A
couple of weeks ago, Mate Rimac, the CEO of Bugatti Rimac, gave us a glimpse of
the hypercar hiding under a veil in an Instagram story. This teaser revealed
the slim LED headlights of the model, which appeared to be an evolution of
those found in the Chiron.
The development of the Chiron’s successor
was announced over two years ago, along with confirmation that the model would
retain its internal combustion engine (ICE) powerplant. Earlier this year,
Bugatti officially confirmed that the hypercar will ditch the old W16 engine in
favor of a brand new V16 unit with some form of electrification. While there’s
no word on official power output figures, the electrified setup will likely
surpass its predecessor delivering well over 1,600 hp.
Bugatti’s loyal customers have already
seen the new model, but the rest of the world has to wait until the official
debut. Top Gear suggests that this will happen in June, although we wouldn’t be
surprised if Bugatti starts sharing teasers about the new hypercar a lot
sooner.