Resembling a formidable fighter jet rather than a specialised passenger vehicle, the bold Bugatti Bolide made its striking debut as a prototype during the momentous 100th-year anniversary of the iconic 24 Hours of Le Man’s race.
It’s race day! In a few hours, on the hallowed asphalt on which so much history has been made, BUGATTI will celebrate the 24 Hours of Le Mans Centenary and deliver another magical milestone moment: the public dynamic debut of the BOLIDE.#BUGATTI #BOLIDE #LeMans24… pic.twitter.com/nANSbxHPIO
— Bugatti (@Bugatti) June 10, 2023
In the realm of automotive innovation, few endeavours match the audacity and purity of vision seen in the creation of the Bugatti Bolide. From its inception, the Bolide has aimed for unparalleled greatness – a featherweight masterpiece built around the revered quad turbo 8,0-litre W16 engine.
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After two and a half years since its concept unveiling, the Bolide is undergoing a relentless refinement process on renowned racetracks, as it relentlessly pursues the pinnacle of motorsport-level performance. Anticipated to commence in 2024, the first deliveries of the Bolide will mark a milestone in automotive history. With production limited to just 40 units and a net unit price of four million euros each, the Bolide represents the epitome of exclusivity, innovation, and uncompromising performance of the French brand.
The Bolide’s test program is nothing short of gruelling, designed to match the intensity of this exceptional machine. With an astonishing power output of 1 176 kW and an astoundingly low dry weight of 1 450 kg, the Bolide achieves an unprecedented weight-to-power ratio. The ongoing program showcases the Bolide’s breathtaking cornering speeds, capable of generating up to 2,5 G of lateral force and producing nearly three tons of downforce, depending on the velocity.
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Chief Engineer for the Bolide, Christian Willmann, explains that this level of aerodynamic refinement is typically reserved for the upper echelons of motorsport, solidifying Bugatti’s relentless dedication to crafting a machine that effortlessly blends performance and drivability.
A meticulously developed front diffuser improves drivability by compressing incoming air under the front splitter, creating a powerful suction force that keeps the Bolide firmly planted on the tarmac. Simultaneously, the diffuser masterfully guides the airflow, directing it to the sides until it gracefully exits behind the front tires.
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Purpose-designed air curtains located ahead of the front wheels optimize airflow, reducing drag and enhancing overall efficiency. Winglets positioned at the outer edges of the front splitter ingeniously shape the airflow into a captivating vortex, empowering the diffuser with an energized stream and bolstering rear downforce. The Bolide’s sleek cabin design ensures uninterrupted airflow to the side intercoolers, while the precisely crafted wing mirrors play their part by expertly channeling air towards the intercoolers, maximizing cooling efficiency.