Akmal Azhar
Hybrid Revolution Meets Hypercar Legacy
The upcoming Bugatti Tourbillon marks a significant evolution in the hypercar world, combining traditional mechanical artistry with cutting-edge Croatian electric innovation. At the core of this marvel is Rimac Technology, the engineering powerhouse from Croatia that has delivered the Tourbillon’s sophisticated hybrid drivetrain. This is not just a power upgrade—it is a complete transformation of what defines a hypercar.
The Powertrain: Electric Motors Meet V16 Engine
The Tourbillon is powered by a groundbreaking hybrid system that blends a newly developed 8.3-litre naturally aspirated V16 engine with three electric motors—two in the front and one at the rear. The electric motors alone generate 800 horsepower, capable of spinning at an extraordinary 24,000 rpm.
This electric torque is seamlessly integrated with the combustion engine, offering both raw performance and unprecedented responsiveness. Rimac’s advanced silicon-carbide inverters and proprietary control software manage the entire system, ensuring maximum efficiency and control under all conditions.
Battery Innovation: Compact Power and High Voltage
Feeding this electric beast is a 25 kWh, T-shaped battery with over 1,500 cells, developed entirely in-house by Rimac. The 800-volt oil-cooled battery is strategically positioned to optimize weight distribution and performance. It’s managed by Rimac’s latest fifth-generation Battery Management System, which not only maximizes power delivery but also meets stringent global safety standards such as ASPICE Level 2 and ASIL D. This battery setup allows the Tourbillon to travel more than 60 km on electric power alone—enough for urban cruising without emissions.
Weight Reduction and Performance Engineering
Despite the complexity of the hybrid system, the Tourbillon is lighter than its predecessor, the Chiron. The rear assembly, which includes the V16 engine, transmission, torque-vectoring system, and the rear electric motor, weighs just 430 kilograms—roughly equal to the Chiron’s W16 engine on its own.
The front axle electric motors are light but provide critical handling enhancements through advanced torque distribution. All of this engineering excellence results in a car capable of speeds exceeding 445 km/h, while still offering balanced handling and usable electric range.
Electronic Systems and Thermal Management
Beyond the powertrain, Rimac also engineered the Tourbillon’s electronic architecture, including three advanced domain control units with custom-developed hardware and software.
These systems handle everything from vehicle dynamics and safety to infotainment and driver assistance. An intelligent thermal management system ensures peak performance even under extreme loads, while maintaining optimal temperatures for both electric and combustion components.
Vision from the Leadership
Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac and President of Rimac Group, described the Tourbillon as a culmination of decades of innovation. Despite pushing technical boundaries, he emphasized the achievement of a car that remains lighter and more agile than its predecessor. “What we have built here redefines expectations of a modern hypercar,” he stated.
Nurdin Pitarević, COO of Rimac Technology, added that this project demonstrates their ability to develop world-class solutions tailored for extreme performance. “While we serve large OEMs with scalable EV components, Tourbillon represents our mastery in custom-built, high-performance engineering,” he said.
Limited Production, Unlimited Ambition
Production of the Bugatti Tourbillon will begin in 2026, with only 250 units to be made. This ultra-exclusive run ensures that each vehicle receives the attention to detail and craftsmanship worthy of the Bugatti-Rimac name. More importantly, it stands as a milestone for Croatia’s high-tech industry—proving that even the world’s most elite vehicles can carry a “Made in Croatia” signature.
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