Ögonblicket vi (alla) har väntat på är här - Bugatti har precis presenterat uppföljaren till modellen Veyron. Den heter som vi tidigare har nämnt Chiron och blir som väntat en av de absolut värsta bilarna som går att köpa. 1 500 hästar, från stillastående till 100 km/h på under 2,5 sekunder och en (begränsad) toppfart på 420 km/h - allt förpackat i en lyxvagn du kan åka långt med innan du får träsmak.
Pressmeddelande Geneva International Motor Show 2016:
world premiere for the ultimate super sports car
Bugatti Chiron –
? The Chiron is the world’s most powerful, fastest, most luxurious and
most exclusive production super sports car
? With the Chiron, Bugatti has made the best even better
? The Chiron is the world’s first production sports car with 1,500 HP
? With torque of 1,600 Nm between 2,000 and 6,000 rpm, the Chiron offers
maximum performance with outstanding control in all speed ranges
? Maximum speed: 420 km/h, limited for road travel
? The Chiron is ready for a new world speed record
? Acceleration: from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 2.5 seconds
? The Chiron is limited to a series of 500 units
? Market launch in autumn 2016
? Basic price: €2.4 million net
? Advance orders have already been received for one third of the total
production
? Unique market position thanks to the unprecedented combination of
ultimate performance with exclusive design and comfort
? The Chiron embodies Bugatti’s new design language
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Molsheim / Geneva, February 29, 2016. Bugatti is celebrating a world premiere at
the Geneva International Motor Show: the French luxury brand is unveiling the Bugatti
Chiron, the most powerful, fastest, most luxurious and most exclusive production
super sports car in the world. The Chiron is the latest generation of the ultimate super
sports car and is a completely new development. The sports car manufacturer from
Molsheim, with its long tradition, has taken the unique features of a modern Bugatti to
a new level and developed a high-performance machine that has become significantly
better in every respect. With a power output of 1,500 HP, unprecedented for
production vehicles, an exceptionally high torque value of 1,600 Nm between 2,000
and 6,000 rpm and a wide variety of technical innovations, the Chiron sets new
standards in every respect. The Chiron is therefore very well-positioned to become the
next world speed record holder and reach a maximum speed significantly above the
record currently held by Bugatti. The manufacturer has limited the maximum speed of
the new car to 420 km/h for road use. The Chiron is to be built at the company’s
headquarters in Molsheim. Only 500 of these exceptional cars are to be produced. The
basic price is €2.4 million net. Currently, advance orders have been received for one
third of the total production run. The first vehicle is due to be delivered to a customer
“It is part of human nature to cross boundaries and set new records – to run 100 m faster
than ever before, to fly even further into space and to enter new realms. This striving is also
our driving force at Bugatti,” said Wolfgang Dürheimer, President of Bugatti Automobiles
S.A.S., at the presentation of the Chiron. “The Chiron is the result of our efforts to make the
With the Chiron, the Bugatti President said that Bugatti had left the dimensions which define
the operations of all market players and had established new paradigms that had previously
not existed. “Bugatti has tested the limits of physics. There is no area where we have not
achieved significant improvements.“
The Bugatti Chiron is the world’s first super sports car to bring 1,500 HP onto the road with a
torque of 1.600 Nm at 2,000 to 6,000 rpm with tremendous effectiveness, extremely high
safety levels and unprecedented comfort.
This is the result of the legendary and unique eight-litre W16 engine that has been newly
developed by Bugatti. In combination with the four new, larger turbochargers that are
controlled by the Bugatti two-stage turbocharging, an innovation that Bugatti is introducing,
and a large number of other technical refinements and innovations, maximum performance is
available constantly and can be easily controlled at all speeds. In its Top Speed mode, the
car reaches the maximum speed of 420 km/h, limited for road use – however, this is by no
means the end of the road for the Bugatti Chiron.
With the new carbon fibre monocoque, a newly designed adaptive chassis, tyres developed
especially for Bugatti and other innovative technologies, the Chiron is not only a champion in
terms of maximum acceleration but is, for the first time, also an agile, modern Bugatti with
handling that ensures maximum driving pleasure.
The design of the Chiron combines significantly more “beast” with a very high level of
“beauty”. The design language introduced by Bugatti with the Chiron has a significantly more
aggressive tone and does justice to the character of the new super sports car. The designers
have succeeded in reinterpreting Bugatti’s DNA with its distinctive features in a modern
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manifestation at the same time as adding new features resulting from the technical demands
of even higher performance. The Chiron remains unmistakably a Bugatti.
“The Chiron is the quintessential ultimate super sports car: ultra-modern, incredibly fast, agile
and powerful with a stylistically demanding design and the highest possible levels of
comfort,” says Wolfgang Dürheimer. “This combination is not offered by any other market
player and gives Bugatti its unique market position.”
“Our customers form an exclusive group of automobile collectors who are searching for the
very best. With the Veyron, they have the best production sports car of the past 10 years,”
Dürheimer continues. “This is why their demands and expectations for our next step – the
Chiron – were so high.“
Customers’ reactions show that Bugatti has hit the mark. Advance orders have already been
received for one third of the production series. “Those who have already considered Bugatti
and its unique features in connection with the purchase of a Veyron will find there is no way
they can ignore the Chiron,” according to Wolfgang Dürheimer.
“With the Chiron we will not only be providing a key emotional element for the image of the
Volkswagen Group but will also be making a positive contribution to Group results,” says
Wolfgang Dürheimer.
The Chiron can be seen on the Bugatti stand in Hall 1 at the Geneva International Motor
Show from March 1 to 13.
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The Chiron in detail
? Newly developed W16 engine
? Two-stage turbocharging is the outstanding technical feature of the powertrain
? New titanium exhaust system
? The two main catalytic converters are about six times as large as the unit fitted to a
medium-sized car
? The active surface of all six catalytic converters used for exhaust gas treatment
corresponds to the area of more than 30 soccer pitches
? The transmission has the largest, highest-performance clutch fitted to a passenger
? Highly sophisticated monocoque with extremely high rigidity – LMP1 level
? First airbag in the world to shoot through a carbon fibre housing
? Carbon fibre body is an example of sophisticated craftsmanship
? For the first time, Bugatti has developed an adaptive chassis – for significantly greater
agility and driving comfort
? New high-performance tyres tested at aerospace facilities
? Newly developed high-performance brakes with Formula One technical modules
? New adaptive chassis with five driving programs
? Intelligent air intake management significantly improves aerodynamic properties as
well as enhancing vehicle cooling
? Newly developed heat shield for very-high-efficiency brake cooling
? Active aerodynamics system is a unique combination of performance-defining
? Highest-performance, most intelligent cooling system in sports car sector
Electrical systems and electronics
? The world’s most intelligent super sports car with a high degree of future orientation
? The flattest full-LED projector headlamps in the automobile sector
? Newly developed adaptive instrument cluster
? Central console with highly sophisticated design
? High-performance high-end sound system makes the Chiron the world’s fastest
? Further development of telemetry system for even more service and customer
? Electromagnetic compatibility comparable to that of a military vehicle
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Design: new Bugatti design language: Form follows Performance
? Design features have a technical background
? Expertly handcrafted trim skilfully sets the scene for the side line
? Newly developed rear end with innovative rear light creates the distinctive signature
of the Chiron
? Significantly more “beast” combined with a high level of “beauty”
? 100 percent authentic materials
? Newly designed front emblem crafted from solid 970 fine silver and enamel
? Illuminated C-bar in the interior is the longest light conductor in the automobile
? The focus is on the pilot
? Everything within reach and perfectly controllable
Overall vehicle development
? Development and test programme of unprecedented complexity in the super sports
? The Chiron meets the most exacting quality requirements
Highly advanced technologies and innovative solutions make for a superlative super
How can you develop a new super sports car if you have already built the best? This was the
steep challenge faced by Bugatti engineers in the development of the Chiron. The
development brief for the new Bugatti was short and sweet – make the best significantly
better in every respect.
Willi Netuschil, Board of Management Member and Head of Development at Bugatti,
describes the technical approach: “Where other manufacturers stop, Bugatti goes a step
further. We probe the limits. In our development work, we use all the technologies that are
available, without any restrictions. Our aim is to be the best in the final resort.”
Newly developed W16 engine
1,500 HP was the power target for the Chiron. To achieve this objective, the eight-litre W16
engine which is already well-known to customers and fans was completely redesigned. To
achieve a power boost of 25 percent compared with the predecessor, almost every
component of the engine was considered and redesigned. To compensate for the weight
increase caused by the high power output, greater use is made of lightweight materials such
as titanium and carbon fibre. For example, the intake tube, the charge air system and the
chain housing are all made of carbon fibre. The weight of the new crankshaft has also been
5 BUGATTI
The key factors in the increased power output are higher-performance turbochargers and
duplex fuel injection with 32 injectors. In addition, the charge air cooling system has been
improved. As a result, more than 60,000 litres of air per minute are pumped through the
engine. The coolant pump is also a very high-performance unit. In one minute, it circulates
800 litres of water through the entire engine.
Two-stage turbocharging is the outstanding technical feature of the powertrain
The engine is fitted with four larger, higher-performance turbochargers. They are operated in
a two-stage configuration. The two-stage turbocharging system developed by Bugatti
especially for this car is the outstanding technical feature of the Chiron powertrain. To ensure
maximum acceleration from a standstill without the “turbo lag” feared by sports car drivers,
the Chiron moves off the mark with only two turbochargers in operation. The other two units
are only activated at about 3,800 rpm. As a result, the two-stage turbocharging delivers an
absolutely linear power curve from 2,000 rpm, huge torque in the low engine speed range
and a power output that can be controlled and dosed rather well.
New titanium exhaust system / the main catalytic converters are about six times as large as
the unit fitted to a medium-sized car
Another feature that boosts the power output is the new titanium exhaust system with
reduced exhaust gas back pressure. The system is fully insulated and equipped with four
pre-converters and two main catalytic converters which are considerably larger than their
predecessors. The main converters are about six times as large as the unit fitted to a
medium-sized car. The total active surface of the six converters used for exhaust gas
treatment is about 230,266 m2, corresponding to the area of more than 30 soccer fields.
From the catalytic converters, the exhaust gas is fed to a silencer which is extremely light
compared with similar units, weighing only 20 kg. While other manufacturers use stainless
steel, the silencer of the Chiron is made from titanium. The exhaust system is rounded off by
six tailpipes, with four routed to the rear and two pointing downwards.
The transmission has the largest, highest-performance clutch fitted to a passenger car
The powertrain features a front-axle differential with integrated inter-axle lock and a rear-axle
differential with integrated inter-wheel lock and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox designed
for a torque of 1,600 Nm. This gearbox developed especially by Bugatti has the largest,
highest-performance clutch used on a passenger car. It goes almost without saying that the
Chiron has permanent four-wheel drive.
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Highly sophisticated monocoque with extremely high rigidity – LMP1 level
The monocoque of the Chiron is made entirely from carbon fibre and is designed for crash
protection. This newly developed unit is the technically most sophisticated monocoque in its
class. For the first time, the rear end of the car is also made from carbon fibre. If all the fibres
used in the monocoque were laid out end to end, they would stretch nine times the distance
between the earth and the moon. The production of a monocoque takes four weeks.
Thanks to the use of high-performance high-tech materials, the structure of the Chiron at the
rear end is 8 kg lighter than that of its predecessor. The structure is completed by a carbon
fibre underbody manufactured by an innovative sandwich procedure. The sandwich
construction, combined with optimised material use, results in a weight saving of 8 kg
compared with conventional construction. The structure of a sports car is not only the
decisive factor in its weight but also in its rigidity. The Chiron reaches a torsional rigidity of
50,000 Nm per degree and a flexural rigidity of about 0.25 mm per tonne. These are
sensationally good values comparable to those of LMP1 racing cars.
First airbag in the world to shoot through a carbon fibre housing
The new design of the Chiron also meets all the latest worldwide safety standards. The
Chiron boasts the most advanced airbag technology available, with a total of six airbags.
Thanks to Bugatti’s outstanding expertise in airbag design, it proved possible to develop an
airbag that shoots through a carbon fibre housing. This is the case with the dashboard on the
passenger’s side and the seat housings.
Carbon fibre body is an example of sophisticated craftsmanship
The outer skin of the Chiron is made entirely from carbon fibre with perfectly aligned fibres
flowing across the boundaries of neighbouring components without any optical interruption.
This alignment, which is the result of skilful handcrafting and uncompromising attention to
detail, makes the super sports car a real eyecatcher. Only the highest-quality carbon fibre
fabric is used for visible carbon surfaces and six layers of clear coat are applied to ensure a
perfect surface. Only Bugatti is so painstaking in this area.
In addition, some parts of the body require extremely complex production processes, such as
the rear compartment lid or the wings. These do not have any edges or gaps but only
fantastic reflections, which also applies to the side. Bugatti has succeeded in developing a
body part that extends from the A-pillar to the rear in a single piece – an extremely
sophisticated part that is simply beautiful to look at.
Last but not least, the new structure of the Chiron allows an optimised package and even
more comfort. For the first time, it is possible to stow a suitcase with the size of a cabin
trolley approved for air travel (44 litres) in the luggage space of a Bugatti. To provide this
space, the radiator is installed in an inclined position, which also allows a larger cooling
7 BUGATTI
For the first time, Bugatti has developed an adaptive chassis – for significantly greater agility
and driving comfort
Bugatti has developed an adaptive chassis for the Chiron. This provides an extremely
dynamic driving experience, very direct response, considerably more agility, precise steering
response, fast cornering and outstanding roadholding even at high cornering speeds – in
other words, the driver has maximum driving pleasure in a very comfortable overall package.
The chassis design and power output of the Chiron ensure extreme controllability even when
driven at the limit. The responses of steering, brakes and the accelerator pedal are direct and
directional stability is outstanding.
New high-performance tyres tested at aerospace facilities
These advantages are the result of a number of different factors such as the electric steering
system, the redesigned front and rear axles and a suspension with newly developed chassis
bushings that are bolted directly to the new monocoque, ensuring optimum reactions to
The Chiron is shod with entirely new high-performance tyres, once again developed by
Bugatti together with its strategic tyre partner Michelin. As with the Chiron as a whole there
are no compromises in the case of the tyres. They must transfer maximum torque of up to
5,000 Nm per wheel safely to the road and develop unprecedentedly high lateral guidance
for the high-performance coupe. In addition, they need to be comfortable in city traffic and roll
reliably at high speed. The tremendous forces on the tyre at a speed of 400 km/h show what
is needed. Each single gram of rubber is exposed to centrifugal force of 3,800 g, the result of
acceleration some 3,800 times the force of gravity.
The tyres, size 285 / 30 R20 at the front and 355 / 25 R21 at the rear, have a larger contact
surface (+14% at the front, +12% at the rear) and therefore greater potential in decisive
driving situations with significant improvements in braking behaviour, acceleration, grip on
wet and dry roads, noise levels, mechanical comfort and handling at the limits.
The extraordinarily high quality of the new Michelin tyres gave the Bugatti experts greater
leeway for designing the driving performance of this exceptional sports car. This leeway was
used for the development of the new driving dynamics systems. The innovative all-wheel
drive system with torque factoring function via an electronically controlled inter-wheel
differential lock ensures strong grip even with high tyre distortion angles.
The tyres of the Chiron meet extreme requirements, which is why they are tested on
aerospace industry test rigs.
Last but not least, customers will be pleased to note that the tyres of the Chiron are easier to
install and allow lower operating expenses.
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Newly developed high-performance brakes with Formula One technical modules
The world’s fastest production super sports car needs the best brakes in the world. Bugatti
uses special carbon ceramic brake discs made from carbon silicon carbide (CSiC). This
material makes the brake disk lighter at the same time as giving it greater improved corrosion
resistance, performance and durability. In addition, the front and rear brake discs of the
Chiron have a diameter which is 20 mm larger and have become 2 mm thicker, resulting in
more effective heat dissipation by the brake discs and improved performance on the track.
The brake calipers have been entirely newly designed. They are forged from an aluminium
part and then milled using bionic principles. In other words, the design is based on structures
found in nature. The new architecture allows minimum weight to be combined with maximum
rigidity for direct response and very easy dosing of the brakes. Thanks to the new
asymmetrical design, the brake caliper can dissipate an extraordinary amount of braking
energy. It also looks like a small work of art.
The front-axle brake calipers are each fitted with eight titanium pistons, with six titanium
pistons on each caliper of the rear axle. As a special feature of the Bugatti brakes, pistons of
different diameters are fitted to each caliper. This configuration ensures even pressure
distribution over the entire surface of the brake pad, preventing irregular wear. This is
complex racing technology that Bugatti has fitted to a production vehicle.
New adaptive chassis with five driving programs
The adaptive chassis of the Bugatti Chiron has five different driving programs: Lift, EB “Auto”,
Autobahn, Handling und Top Speed. This new control strategy was necessary as a result of
the extremely high power output and especially the huge maximum torque of the Chiron,
which is available over 70 percent of the entire engine speed range. The main actuators
used in the individual driving programs are the chassis height adjustment, the electronically
controlled shock absorbers, the electronically controlled power assisted steering, the four-
wheel drive with “easy to drift” feature, the electronically controlled rear differential, the
aerodynamic control system and the stability and brake control system. All these actuators
ensure that the super sports car is ideally adjusted for the driving mode which has been
The “Lift” mode is used if the vehicle is to be loaded on a trailer or driven over speed bumps
and entries. When a speed of 50 km an hour is reached, the vehicle automatically switches
to the base EB “Auto” mode for comfortable and agile driving. In this mode, the chassis
height and shock absorbers are automatically controlled as a function of speed and road
If the Chiron is driven faster than 180 km/h, the “Autobahn” mode is automatically activated.
In this case, the shock absorber settings are automatically adjusted for comfortable, stable
handling at higher speeds on highways. In the “Handling” mode, all systems are set for
maximum agility and performance. This mode is recommended for driving on race circuits.
The modes Lift, EB “Auto”, Autobahn and Handling can be activated individually using a
rotary switch on the steering wheel. The maximum speed in the “’Auto”, “Autobahn” and
“Handling” modes is 380 km/h.
To reach higher speeds, the driver can activate the “Top Speed” mode, which allows speeds
of up to 420 km/h and is activated by a second, separate ignition key. The so-called Speed
9 BUGATTI
Key is also a feature of the Veyron and is used by Bugatti to underline the special nature of
driving up to top speed. By turning this key, the driver consciously opts for this mode, which
is then only enabled by the vehicle if all the relevant systems give the green light. “Safety
first” remains Bugatti’s motto.
Intelligent air intake management significantly improves aerodynamic properties as well as
enhancing vehicle cooling
Aerodynamics and cooling are extremely important, especially in the super sports car sector.
The Chiron is a largely enclosed vehicle designed to obtain the best possible aerodynamic
properties. For this reason, air flow through the vehicle for cooling presents an enormous
challenge. This internal combustion engine with a power output of 1,500 HP can generate
more than 3,000 HP of heat which needs to be dissipated.
The air intake management system of the Chiron is a highly sophisticated system that
represents an engineering masterpiece. In order to ensure lower drag, the effective drag
area was reduced and designed in such a way that turbulence as a result of rotating wheels
is avoided. The remaining exposed area at the front of the vehicle is used in a targeted way
to guide the oncoming air through and around the car. Components which play a key role
here are the air curtain, the aerodynamic front splitter, the front air intakes for the cooling of
brakes, water and air conditioning, the air intakes of the oil cooler and the engine air inlets on
the sides as well as the continuous trailing edge on the rear of the vehicle.
Newly developed heat shield for very-high-efficiency brake cooling
Three air inflows on each side of the car are used for brake cooling, guiding cooling air
through the wheel rim. For this purpose, Bugatti has developed an extremely sophisticated
heat shield, for which a patent application has been filed. This shield guides hot air through
the brakes to the exterior, providing extremely effective brake cooling.
The level underbody of the Chiron is equipped with special air guides in the form of rails,
called strakes, and active front diffusers. Air outlets for the main radiator are also installed at
the front. In the central section of the underbody, NACA ducts scoop air into the interior to
cool the powertrain; other air intakes at the rear provide cooling for the rear brakes.
Active aerodynamics system is a unique combination of performance-defining features
Apart from the passive aerodynamic features already mentioned, the Chiron also has an
active aerodynamics system. This is a uniquely sophisticated combination of performance-
defining features including the hydraulic diffuser flap with optimised geometry on the front
axle to ensure lower drag and improved brake cooling, the adaptive chassis which allows
different ground clearances to be set and the active air brake.
The adaptive rear spoiler of the Bugatti is unique. On the Chiron, the spoiler can adopt four
positions – completely retracted, slightly extended (the position for the Top Speed mode),
completely extended (for the Handling and Autobahn modes, with appropriately adapted
10 BUGATTI
angles) and also tilted forwards in the air brake position. The level and angle of the wing are
adjusted fully automatically in line with the driving situation. The highly efficient design of the
rear wing means that an additional spoiler is not required, resulting in lower drag and weight
Highest-performance, most intelligent cooling system in sports car sector
The Chiron is equipped with two cooling water loops, a high-temperature loop for engine
cooling and a low-temperature loop for charge air cooling. The high-temperature loop
features one main and two auxiliary radiators with 37 litres of cooling water which are
pumped through the entire cooling loop in about three seconds. The low-temperature loop
designed by Bugatti to ensure outstanding everyday practicality for its super sports cars is
equipped with one radiator and has a water volume of 12 litres. This loop prevents the
charge air from overheating in stop-and-go driving and urban traffic.
If the three coolers for engine oil, transmission oil and rear axle differential oil are included,
together with the two water/air heat exchangers and the hydraulic oil cooler, the cooling
system of the Chiron has a total of 10 radiators and is the most sophisticated and highest-
performance cooling system installed on a sports car.
Electrical systems and electronics
The world’s most intelligent super sports car with a high degree of future orientation
The Chiron is the world’s most intelligent production super sports car. It creates ideal
conditions for the driver to concentrate fully on piloting a high-performance vehicle and
enjoying his emotions without any distractions whatsoever. No fewer than 50 controllers
manage the engine and transmission, the chassis components, the air conditioning and
comfort functions. And of course, all these systems continue to perform reliably even at
speeds significantly over 400 km/h.
Bugatti has paid more attention to the future viability of the new Chiron than almost any other
carmaker. In order to ensure that a Bugatti remains compatible for many years with
peripheral hardware and software which is continuously being developed, the processors
fitted to certain controllers feature additional capacity for later programming. A firm
foundation has been laid for subsequent expansion, especially in connection with telemetry
and connectivity functions.
New developments on the Chiron include the complex LED lighting system, the infotainment
system with instrument cluster and the air conditioning control unit. To implement special
lighting scenarios such as the welcome ceremony, the vehicle lighting system is designed for
individual digital control.
The flattest full-LED projector headlamps in the automobile sector
To accentuate the unique “eight-eye” design of the front end, Bugatti has equipped the
Chiron with the flattest full-LED projector headlamps ever fitted to a car, with a height of only
90 mm. Each headlamp has its own controller to operate the LEDs installed behind the main
11 BUGATTI
lenses which are mounted on delicate aluminium arms. The eight outer lighting squares
consist of light conductors providing sidelight and daytime running light functions. Even in the
case of the headlamps, Bugatti has not attempted to save high-quality materials, using
carbon fibre for the light trims.
Newly developed adaptive instrument cluster
The instrument cluster in the cockpit is also a completely new development by Bugatti. The
cluster, installed in an aluminium housing, consists of three compact displays surrounding
the analogue speedometer. High-resolution TFT displays are positioned to the left and right
of the speedometer with a smaller flat IPS display located below. The high-resolution
graphics are extremely sharp. The principle is that the driver should be offered only the
information that is necessary in view of the driving mode that is active. The faster the Chiron
is driven, the simpler the presentation becomes. For example, infotainment data are hidden
and the main focus is on the driving data that the driver actually needs to explore the full
potential of this super sports car – safely and extremely enjoyably.
Central console with highly sophisticated design
The Chiron is home to what is probably the most aesthetically pleasing and narrowest central
console used in the automobile sector. The console features the selector lever and four
round air conditioning switches with indicators under glass hoods which can easily be seen
not only from the driver’s seat but also by the passenger. On the first control level, the four
rotary switches operate the air distribution, blower, temperature and seat heating functions.
But that is not all. In line with the principle that a huge variety of functions should be
presented in a way which is clear and allows intuitive operation, the second level of each
indicator provides additional functions for the monitoring of driving performance data, also
allowing individual programming, if the driver so desires. There are four different settings for
the definition of different functions: the Icon mode, the Performance mode, the Cruise mode
and the Classic mode.
High-performance high-end sound system makes the Chiron the world’s fastest concert hall
The audio system installed on the Chiron is simply sensational. Developed exclusively for
Bugatti by the “accuton” brand, well-known for its high-end equipment, this is the most
luxurious sound system available on a super sports car. Audio system connoisseurs will
appreciate the use of a one-carat diamond membrane in each of the four tweeters, delivering
a crystal-clear sound. In addition, the world’s first mid-range speaker with two separate
membrane zones is fitted to the Chiron. In combination with other sophisticated features, the
result is a sound platform that makes the Chiron the world’s fastest concert hall. It is almost
unsurprising that the system can even be adjusted for different interior materials. It is even
possible to take different types of leather into consideration. In the final resort, the occupants
of a Chiron experience music not as if they were in front of the stage but as if they were
sitting in the midst of the orchestra.
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Further development of telemetry system for even more service and customer benefits
Among the equipment elements which are highly appreciated, Bugatti owners emphasise the
telemetry function of their vehicles. For the new Chiron, the performance of this function has
been significantly enhanced. To date, Bugatti technicians have been able to call up vehicle
condition data at the request of the customer. With the telemetry system implemented on the
new model, they will be able to carry out detailed preliminary investigations via the channels
of the controllers. This can be important in order to make a precise assessment of any
irregularities and the urgency of remedial action. In addition to the fast UMTS data
transmission standard, the Chiron is also equipped with WLAN (Wifi). For example, this
allows drivers to keep a diary of their trips with the super sports car.
Electromagnetic compatibility comparable to that of a military vehicle
In line with the heightened security requirements of Bugatti customers, the Chiron also
features an extremely high level of electromagnetic compatibility. Here too, the Bugatti
engineers did not accept any compromises; to be absolutely sure, they had additional tests
carried out on the Chiron in accordance with the applicable military standard.
New Bugatti design language: Form follows Performance
The Chiron is the most modern interpretation of Bugatti’s brand DNA. It embodies the new
design language of the luxury brand with its long tradition. The styling accentuates the
performance aspect of the super sports car much more strongly. The motto adopted by the
Bugatti designers for the Chiron was “Form follows Performance”.
Achim Anscheidt, Director of Design at Bugatti, describes his task as follows: “In view of our
extraordinary brand and the task in hand, it would not be adequate to simply draw a few
fashionable lines. In terms of design, the Chiron was an opportunity to develop most of the
basic elements required for an unambiguous stylistic concept from the extreme technical
requirements of the vehicle with a view to underlining the performance of this unique super
“This principle of form following performance defines the Chiron as an authentic technical
product and a fascinating automobile sculpture,” Anscheidt adds. “Both for our customers
and for us as designers, it is important for a Bugatti to have a certain stylistic longevity so
that it is still perceived as precious in 10 or even 50 years.”
The new design language is characterised by extremely generous surfaces, which are
demarcated by pronounced lines in the case of the Chiron. The accentuated lines of the
Chiron were inspired by the legendary Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, the most famous creation
of Jean Bugatti, design genius and son of the founder Ettore.
13 BUGATTI
Design features have a technical background
The most distinctive design features of the Chiron are the Bugatti horseshoe with the eight-
eyed front end, the C-bar on the side (also known as the “Bugatti line”), which is also used as
a design element in the interior, the central fin as a reminiscence of the central seam on the
Bugatti Atlantic, which extends over the entire vehicle to the rear, and the redesigned rear
end with the newly developed rear light, which is unique in the automobile industry and gives
the Chiron its distinctive Bugatti signature.
Most of these elements have a technical background and have been designed to fully
accentuate the growing performance requirements of the Chiron.
The Chiron is higher and wider than its predecessor, which allows for more space, especially
in the footwell, and improved ergonomics. The headroom has been increased by 12 mm.
The wider front end of the vehicle is highlighted by the new eight-eye face. Apart from the
lamp housings, the front end features a highly effective air inlet for the cooling of the front
wheels and brakes and therefore performs an important aerodynamic function.
Expertly handcrafted trim skilfully sets the scene for the side line
That also applies to the Bugatti line, which not only emphatically defines the sides of the
exterior but is also conspicuous in the interior. The exterior line impressively reflects Bugatti’s
design ethos which ideally calls for shapes and lines to be derived from technical
requirements. This is not only a beautiful styling line. Its positioning was defined by the need
to improve engine ventilation and ventilation performance in general at this point. Behind the
A-pillar a very useful fresh air flow enters the vehicle at the level of the window. The air is
absorbed by the C-bar, guided through to the wheel arch and leaves the car via the rear.
A trim strip with a length of 2.80 metres effectively sets the scene for the side line. This strip
is made from a special aluminium alloy with hand polishing to ensure a high gloss. If the
customer so wishes, the strip is available in a number of different colours. It is embedded
both in the side and in the door. The interaction of an aluminium trim strip of this size and
shape and the carbon fibre outer skin poses a special challenge, which Bugatti has mastered
impressively. This detail alone already demonstrates Bugatti’s ability to facilitate the
Newly developed rear end with innovative rear light creates the distinctive signature of the
The rear with its all-round trailing edge is the clearest example of form following performance
in the design of the Chiron. The rear is shaped to ensure lower drag and to meet the
requirements posed by the high power output, the new top speed and heat dissipation from
the rear end. The suction effect behind the rear end allows the extraction of hot air collecting
in the engine compartment.
Although this rear design is not entirely new in the sports car sector, the combined rear,
brake, reversing and indicator light certainly is. The designers developed this homogeneous
light strip with a length of 1.60 metres extending over the entire rear without any interruptions
with a view to making a purist statement emphasising the width of the Chiron. The rear light
14 BUGATTI
strip is the unmistakable signature and unique feature of this Bugatti. The Chiron is the first
and only production car to feature a rear light of this type. The light strip is only a few
millimetres high and is surrounded by a bar machined from solid aluminium. 82 Super RED
LED lamps ensure that all road-users can immediately see that a Bugatti Chiron is driving
Significantly more “beast” combined with a high level of “beauty”
The lines of the new car show that the balance between “beauty” and “beast” needed in a
modern Bugatti has been significantly shifted in the direction of aggression in the case of the
new Chiron. This can be seen from the considerably more dynamic sideline, the central fin
that gives an impression of acceleration, the elongated rear wings and the more dynamic
A two-tone colour scheme is a classic element in Bugatti’s design DNA. However, the
boundary between the two colours does not run across components in the case of the Chiron
but follows the edges of components in a highly technical way. In the past, more than 50
percent of Veyron customers chose a two-tone colour scheme for their car. Similar
developments are expected in the case of the Chiron although the new model will still look
extremely seductive and impressive in a single-tone scheme.
At a standstill, the Chiron already has emphatic proportions, not least as a result of its larger
The fact that the vehicle is wider also enhances the volume of the powerful wings, allowing
the Chiron to flex its muscles. This impression is enhanced by the fact that the doors ahead
of the rear wings closely follow the shoulders like a bespoke suit.
The rear spoiler (the “air brake”) emphatically accentuates the unparalleled performance
generated by the rear-mounted powerplant of the Bugatti. The air brake extends over the full
width of the vehicle, making a statement that is both stylistic and technical.
100 percent authentic materials
Bugatti continues to practise its philosophy of “What you see is what you get“ consistently
with the Chiron. This vehicle is constructed in every respect from authentic materials. Parts
that look like carbon fibre, aluminium or leather are really made from these materials. All the
exterior trim parts, wherever they are installed, are made from aluminium of consistently high
grades and quality with an anodised effect. The horseshoe at the front is made from a single
part, with the degree of deformation of the edges reaching the limits of technical feasibility.
On average, the thickness of the material is no more than 1.5 mm. A special, hand-polished
alloy is used to obtain a high gloss finish.
The grille inside the horseshoe also explores the limits of feasibility. The lightweight
aluminium structure used for the grille of the Chiron has a 3-D effect providing optical depth.
However, the grille not only looks good but also has extremely high impact strength as a
result of its complex multi-stage production process.
15 BUGATTI
Newly designed front emblem crafted from solid 970 fine silver and enamel
The front emblem on the radiator grille, also known as the Bugatti “Macaron“, is a real gem.
This symbol is a completely new design which is one third larger than its predecessor. The
Bugatti oval is the only component of the Chiron that has not been subjected to the
painstaking weight saving programme that is normal practice in the development of a super
sports car. This part is allowed to be heavy. The eyecatcher, with a circumference of 26 cm,
consists of solid 970 fine silver and enamel and has a total weight of 155 g, including 140 g
of silver. Previously, the emblem had 2-D optics, with an art deco logo and a hint of shadow,
following examples from the 1920s. The new emblem is a 3-D design creating the effect of
letters hovering over the red enamel. This decorative component can only be produced by a
handcrafting process that is extremely complex and time-consuming. In all, five layers of
enamel are applied in individual processes, followed by baking and hand polishing. Ettore
Bugatti, whose motto was “nothing is too beautiful and nothing is too expensive,” would
certainly have taken pleasure in this example of sheer craftmanship.
Illuminated C-bar in the interior is the longest light conductor in the automobile industry
The interior reflects the stylistic themes of the exterior including the central fin inspired by the
Bugatti Atlantic. This approach ensures a symmetrical layout in the interior.
At the same time, the design theme of the Bugatti line is expressed most strongly in the
interior of the vehicle. The open oval based on a stylised “C”, the initial of Louis Chiron’s
signature, is already a dominant element in the side view of the super sports car and is also
taken up in the passenger compartment as a separating line between the symmetrical units
for the driver and passenger. The C-shaped light strip emerges from the front bonnet into the
passenger compartment as a raised graphic element and merges seamlessly into the
dashboard. From here, it flows over the armrest between the seats to the back wall where it
rises to the roof liner; at the front, it ends at the rear-view mirror. The homogeneously lit,
dimmable light bar is the longest light conductor used in automobiles. This is not the only
superlative as it has a surround that is machined from a single piece of aluminium in a
complex process and is an eyecatcher in itself.
The focus is on the pilot
The cockpit layout of the Bugatti Chiron consistently follows functional requirements. In order
to keep the central console as slim as possible and to allow a spacious impression, the
climate control and infotainment systems have been separated. The units on the central
console have independent displays. The selector for the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is
located in the perfect ergonomic position within easy reach of the driver’s hand. It is
produced from the most exclusive materials available and all aluminium parts are milled from
solid material. Bugatti is the only carmaker to use anodised aluminium for its controls and to
ensure that each individual graphic symbol is illuminated.
Bugatti pilots have all the driving dynamics information they need within their field of vision.
The instruments visible through the steering wheel with its central horseshoe emblem include
the analogue speedometer, the two supplementary digital displays, with the mechanical
16 BUGATTI
speed indicator standing out as a result of its exclusive quality. The speedometer runs up to
the magic figure of 500 km/h (310 mph) and is a feast for the eyes with the exclusive
appearance of a precious Swiss watch.
Everything within reach and perfectly controllable
The steering wheel is a classic example of the perfect combination of form and function. With
an entirely new design, the steering wheel is the pilot’s control centre. There is no need to
take a hand off the steering wheel in order to operate any essential systems. Two multi-
function buttons installed on the left and right sides of the inner rim allow the driver to control
all the multimedia features of the car, including navigation, telephone, sound system and
many other functions. Below the multi-function button, there is a rotary switch for selecting
various driving modes on the left-hand side and the starter button on the right-hand side. At
the bottom of the wheel, the driver finds a button to activate the launch control function,
allowing the Chiron to deploy maximum torque for standing starts and acceleration, leaving
all other vehicles behind.
Chiron buyers can choose between a full-leather steering wheel or a unit with a combination
of leather and carbon fibre. Bugatti is following the wishes of its customers by making very
generous use of high-grade carbon fibre material in the interior of the vehicle. The perfectly
harmonised material split between leather and carbon fibre creates a luxurious environment
commensurate with a technically sophisticated super sports car. At the start of discussions
with customers concerning the configuration of their dream car, Bugatti already offers 31
colours for leather and eight colours for alcantara. If customers have special wishes
concerning colours or materials, which is rather the rule than the exception at Bugatti, the
designers and engineers will do everything in their power to take these into consideration if
possible in view of the stringent quality and safety requirements that apply. For a Bugatti,
only exclusive materials with the best possible quality of workmanship can be used. It goes
without saying that every interior is tailor-made for the individual customer and hand-crafted.
A good seating position and optimum seat comfort are especially important in a super sports
car. Three types of seat are available for the Chiron. The standard version boasts
outstanding seating comfort thanks to its sophisticated upholstery, special seam pattern and
the optimum distribution of seat pressure. Electric adjustment functions make for relaxed,
ergonomic sitting. This is enhanced by the possibility of manual fore and aft adjustment. The
side pads of the seat provide outstanding lateral support. Apart from this all-rounder, Bugatti
also offers a sports seat with belt openings made from high-grade polished aluminium for
four-point belts and a comfort seat with lumbar support, electric fore and aft adjustment and a
The shelf and stowage concept underlines the Chiron’s claim to be not only a high-
performance vehicle but a sports car that is both luxurious and comfortable and stands out
from other market players. With open and closed stowage compartments and doors, which
are all equipped with dimmable lighting, the driver can choose between a considerable
variety of stowage possibilities. Smartphones can be positioned on the central console where
they are directly accessible. The cooled glove compartment provides even greater comfort.
Suit bags or jackets can be hung up on two high-quality hooks behind the seats.
The engineers have even created special stowage spaces for the two ignition keys. The main
key for the operation of the super sports car in driving modes up to a speed of 380 km/h has
17 BUGATTI
a keyless go function and locks into a position to the right of the steering wheel in order to
ensure safe stowage even during very sportive driving. The main key of the Chiron is an
elegant, exclusive unit that lies comfortably in the driver’s hand. It is fabricated from
aluminium and is covered in leather with decorative seams adapted to the interior equipment
of the individual vehicle. The front of the key features the Bugatti logo, handcrafted from
silver and enamel in the same workshop that makes the radiator emblem.
The famed Bugatti Speed Key has a design appropriate to its name. The key housing is
milled from aluminium, polished to a high gloss and boasts the unmistakable blue lettering of
The Speed Key has its own stowage location, held in place by an invisible magnet on the
switch strip to the left of the driver’s seat. It is therefore immediately visible when the driver
Overall vehicle development
Development and test programme of unprecedented complexity in the super sports car
No other super sports car of this calibre completes such an exacting and complex test
program as the Chiron. The process starts with design sketches and 1:1 clay models. These
are followed by geometrical drawings showing all interior and exterior surfaces visible to the
customers and taking into consideration all technical and aesthetic requirements and then by
digital mock-models, until prototypes and pre-series vehicles are built. At each stage in the
process, the Chiron is subjected to a large number of tests, checks and correction loops of
the type which are normally only used in the development of mass-produced models.
More than 30 test vehicles were or still are in use, including six vehicles alone used to ensure
compliance with worldwide safety standards and legislation. Two quality and type-testing
vehicles are also on the roads. No fewer than 10 pre-series vehicles are being built to lay the
foundations for the perfect start of series production in September 2016.
The Chiron has spent more than 300 hours in the wind tunnel, completed more than 500,000
test kilometres and used up more than 200 sets of tyres.
Apart from comprehensive simulations, the Chiron has completed a large number of tests on
test rigs. Some of these, including the engine test bench, had to be redesigned and built
especially for the Chiron as existing facilities were inadequate to simulate the loads on a
1,500 HP unit or were simply too small for the new W16 engine. In addition, the Chiron was
tested on test rigs operated by the aerospace industry or the armed forces as only these test
facilities were adequate for reaching and verifying the performance data that were aimed for.
The Chiron meets the most exacting quality requirements
The quality inspectors of the Volkswagen Group will not grant the Chiron any exceptions
whatsoever as a result of the small numbers to be produced. Like any other modern
Volkswagen Group model, the Chiron must face the most stringent quality requirements
possible. As a result, Chiron owners can look forward to a production super sports car of the
very highest quality.
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Technical Specifications
(near-production vehicle)
Length 4544 mm
Width 2038 mm
Height (normal setting) 1212 mm
Wheelbase 2711 mm
Weight 1995 kg (DIN empty)
Fuel capacity 100 l
Engine configuration/
number of cylinders W16
Displacement 7993 cm3
Valves per cylinder 4
Turbocharging 4 turbochargers with new Bugatti 2-stage turbocharging,
Power output 1,103 kW / 1,500 HP at 6,700 rpm
Max. torque 1,600 Nm (2,000 to 6,000 rpm)
Transmission 7-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox
Drive system Permanent all-wheel drive
Power distribution, front Front-axle differential with Haldex coupling
Power distribution, rear Rear-axle differential with controlled inter-wheel lock
Suspension Double-wishbone, front and rear
Front tyres 285 / 30 R20 ZR (Y) – BG
Rear tyres 355 / 25 R21 ZR (Y) – BG
intercooling (water/air)
Lift, EB “Auto”, Highway, Handling, Top Speed
Controlled components: steering, shock absorbers, ESC,
ASR, Haldex, inter-wheel lock (depending on mode and
speed)
Front brake discs 420 mm
Rear brake discs 400 mm
Number of brake pistons
front 8, rear 6
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Performance
(near-production vehicle, figures are provisional and subject to Type Approval)
Maximum speed: Top Speed 420 km/h (261 mph) (limited for road use)
Maximum speed: Handling 380 km/h (236 mph) (limited)
Acceleration* 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) <2.5 seconds
Braking distances* 100 (62 mph) – 0 km/h 31.3 m
0 – 200 km/h (124 mph) <6.5 seconds
0 – 300 km/h (186 mph) <13.6 seconds
200 (124 mph) – 0 km/h 125 m
300 (186 mph) – 0 km/h 275 m
Lateral acceleration* 1.5 g (handling)
Drag coefficient (cD)* 0.38 (EB “Auto”)
Lift coefficient (cL)(Handling)*
Aerodynamics
0.40 (Handling)
0.35 (Top Speed)
0.59 (Air Brake)
-0.09
-0.26
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