Bugatti is gearing up to unveil its next hypercar, slated to replace the iconic Chiron, in June this year. To whet the appetite of enthusiasts, the company has released a tantalising video featuring the unmistakable sound of its upcoming V16 engine, set to be housed within a carbon fibre-laden chassis. As hinted previously by Bugatti officials, this combustion engine will be part of a hybrid powertrain, marking a significant technological leap for the brand.
While Bugatti remains tight-lipped about specific details, previous reports suggest that the new engine, developed in collaboration with Cosworth, boasts a massive 8.3-litre displacement. Speculation also surrounds the engine’s configuration, with rumours suggesting it might be naturally aspirated and capable of revving up to a spine-tingling 9,000 rpm. Coupled with three electric motors, the powertrain is rumoured to deliver a staggering combined output of 1,800 horsepower. However, Bugatti has confirmed only that the powertrain is a hybrid V16, leaving other details subject to speculation until official disclosures in the coming months.
Interestingly, Bugatti’s exploration of a V16 engine is not entirely novel. The marque previously teased the idea with the 18/3 Chiron concept in 1999, featuring a colossal 6.3-litre W18 engine. The automotive world has seen other attempts at V16-powered vehicles, including the Cadillac V-16 from 1930 and modern concepts like the Rolls-Royce 100EX and the Devel Sixteen, though production versions remain elusive.
Beyond its powertrain, Bugatti’s upcoming hypercar is anticipated to be an all-new model, departing from the evolutionary path of its predecessors. Designed under the guidance of Bugatti Director of Design Achim Anscheidt, it marks the culmination of an era before future models are overseen by a new design team led by Frank Heyl.
Despite the excitement surrounding its imminent debut, prospective buyers will need to exercise patience. Production and deliveries are not slated to commence until 2026, as Bugatti prioritises existing projects like the Mistral roadster and the track-focused Bolide. Nevertheless, Bugatti promises that its next hypercar will be “incomparable in every detail,” embodying the marque’s DNA for eternity.
