Bugatti Tourbillon Revealed: Setting New Standards in Hypercars

NEW ICON - After a long and eagerly anticipated wait, Bugatti Automobiles has finally unveiled the new Bugatti Tourbillon, the much-anticipated successor to the Bugatti Chiron. This groundbreaking release on June 21, 2024, marks a significant milestone for Bugatti, now under the stewardship of Mate Rimac. The Bugatti Tourbillon, stands as the first new Bugatti hypercar of this new era, priced at a staggering $4.1 million, or approximately Rp. 67.4 billion.

The Bugatti Tourbillon, under Mate Rimac's leadership, marks a significant milestone as Bugatti's first hybrid hypercar. (Picture from: GridOto)

The Bugatti Tourbillon is not just a new hypercar; it represents a historic first for Bugatti with its incorporation of hybrid technology. "The development of the Bugatti Tourbillon was guided by every step of Bugatti history and the words of Ettore Bugatti himself," remarked Mate Rimac, the Chief Executive Officer of Bugatti. Rimac emphasized the guiding philosophy of Bugatti's founder, Ettore Bugatti, whose mantra, "if you can compare it, it is no longer a Bugatti" and "nothing is too beautiful," was instrumental in crafting this hyper sports car for a new era.

The Bugatti Tourbillon features a distinctive design that is instantly recognizable as a Bugatti. (Picture from: Voi.id)

The Bugatti Tourbillon boasts a distinctive design that is immediately recognizable as a Bugatti. As highlighted on the manufacturer's official website, the design embraces the philosophy of "Form Follows Performance," blending 115 years of Bugatti's DNA into a new and exciting era. The design of the Tourbillon is an evolution of Bugatti's design language seen in the Veyron and Chiron, drawing inspiration from historic Bugatti cars such as the Type 57SC Atlantic and Type 35, yet pushing the envelope with more aggressive and aerodynamic aesthetics. 

The Bugatti Tourbillon's design embraces the "Form Follows Performance" philosophy, blending 115 years of Bugatti's DNA into a new and exciting era. (Picture from: Voi.id)

Despite its new proportions, the essence of Bugatti remains unmistakable. The Tourbillon is crafted to be timeless while prioritizing performance. Each detail is meticulously refined to balance aerodynamic and thermodynamic performance, true to Bugatti's design heritage. The interior of the Tourbillon continues this tradition with a beautifully detailed cabin designed to stimulate the senses, and features a selection of luxurious materials including titanium, wood, cashmere, and sapphire, each chosen to exude unparalleled excellence.

The Tourbillon's interior features luxurious materials like titanium, wood, cashmere, and sapphire, chosen to exude excellence and stimulate the senses. (Picture from: GridOto)

The most transformative aspect of the Bugatti Tourbillon is its engine and hybrid drive system. Departing from the Ferdinand Piech era, the Tourbillon replaces the iconic 8,000 cc W16 quad-turbo engine with a normally aspirated V16 engine boasting a capacity of 8,300 cc. This V16 engine, developed in collaboration with Cosworth, generates an impressive 986 horsepower and 900 Nm of torque, allowing the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 2 seconds.

The Bugatti Tourbillon remains lightweight thanks to its advanced monocoque structure made from aviation-grade carbon composite material. (Picture from: Voi.id)

The V16 engine's immense power is complemented by three electric motors that drive the front and rear wheels. The front electric motors each deliver 670 hp and up to 3,000 Nm of torque. Additionally, there is a rear wheel drive motor positioned between the engine and transmission that provides 335 hp and 240 Nm of torque. Altogether, the Bugatti Tourbillon achieves a combined power output of 1,775 hp and can reach speeds of up to 445 km/h.

The Bugatti Tourbillon is not only powerful but also technologically advanced. Its instant power delivery and optimal torque flexibility make it the most dynamic Bugatti ever created. The car can operate in hybrid or fully electric mode, offering the convenience of entering electric vehicle zones in urban areas with ease.

The Bugatti Tourbillon, powered by an 8,300 cc naturally-aspirated V16 engine developed with Cosworth, generates 986 horsepower and 900 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 2 seconds. (Picture from: GridOto)

Despite housing a battery and electric motor, the Bugatti Tourbillon remains lightweight thanks to its advanced monocoque structure made from aviation-grade carbon composite material. This material is ingeniously designed to integrate the battery casing and front air intake as structural components, optimizing every element to ensure minimum weight and maximum performance.

Unsurprisingly, the Bugatti Tourbillon represents the pinnacle of performance in the Bugatti lineup. However, this extraordinary hypercar is currently undergoing further testing, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026. Only 250 units will be available for the initial release, making the Tourbillon an exclusive and highly coveted masterpiece. As we eagerly await the arrival of this groundbreaking vehicle, one thing is certain: the Bugatti Tourbillon is set to redefine the future of hypercars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BUGATTI | CARSCOOPS | AUTOCAR | AUTOEXPRESS | MOTORAUTHORITY ]

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The Legendary X1/9 Prototipo: Bertone and Abarth's Masterpiece

Forgotten BEAST - The Fiat X1/9 Abarth Prototipo is a sportscar that ignites excitement among automotive enthusiasts. Initally with only five units of the racing car model ever produced, it remains a rare sight. Today, only four are known to exist, with one having vanished over time. The car's story began in 1974 when Bertone and Abarth teamed up to create a sports car designed to dominate rally tracks. They selected Mario Colucci, a seasoned engineer with extensive experience at Abarth, to lead this groundbreaking project intended to replace the 124 Abarth Rally.

This meticulous restoration showcases the 1974 Abarth X1/9 Stradale Prototipo Coupe, completed by a dedicated Abarth collector. (Picture from: r/spotted)

Introducing the Fierce New Challengers: SSC Tuatara Striker and Aggressor

📢The NEW Challengers - In the realm of high-speed automotive engineering, SSC North America has consistently set new standards for performance and innovation. Their latest offerings, the SSC Tuatara Striker and Tuatara Aggressor, are exemplary models that extend the legacy of the Tuatara, previously celebrated as the world's fastest car. These new variants not only focus on speed but also significantly enhance handling and downforce, making them formidable contenders on both roadways and racetracks.

The Tuatara Striker and Aggressor represent a breakthrough by SSC North America in 2021, setting new standards for performance and innovation in high-speed automotive engineering. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Jerod Shelby, the visionary Founder and CEO of SSC North America, perfectly encapsulates the Tuatara's multifaceted capabilities by stating, "The Tuatara was designed and built to show force wherever it goes." Whether it's maneuvering through urban streets, accelerating down an airstrip, or navigating the challenging turns of a racetrack, the Tuatara meets and surpasses the highest expectations with remarkable ease and precision.

These new variants not only focus on speed but also significantly enhance handling and downforce, making them formidable contenders on both roads and racetracks. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

The SSC Tuatara Striker and Aggressor are not just about raw power; they feature extensive aerodynamic enhancements. Both models come equipped with a large front splitter, integral dive planes, and finned side rockers. Additionally, the rear of these cars includes an active high-downforce wing, a vertical stabilizer, and a diffuser. These combined features generate a remarkable 1,100 lbs of three times the downforce of the standard Tuatara at 160 mph, ensuring unparalleled stability and control at high speeds.

The SSC Tuatara Striker and Aggressor are not just about raw power; they also feature extensive aerodynamic enhancements. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Both the Striker and Aggressor are powered by a twin-turbo V8 engine with a 5,900 cc capacity developed by Nelson Racing. This engine, paired with a 7-speed transmission, delivers seamless power and exceptional performance.

The Striker and Aggressor are both propelled by a twin-turbo V8 engine from Nelson Racing, boasting a 5,900 cc capacity and paired with a 7-speed transmission for seamless power and exceptional performance. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

The Striker's engine can produce 1,369 horsepower with 91 octane gasoline (around RON 95) or an astounding 1,774 horsepower with E85 fuel. For those seeking ultimate performance, the Aggressor offers an optional boost to a phenomenal 2,230 horsepower, catering to the most demanding enthusiasts.

Both models come equipped with a large front splitter, integral dive planes, and finned side rockers. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

In addition, drivers can adjust the exhaust system (muffler) to their preferred noise level, whether loud or quiet, ensuring a thrilling auditory experience. It could be said that the Striker is optimized for downforce, while the Aggressor delivers a monstrous power of 2,230 hp.

The rear of these two SSC North America hypercars includes an active high-downforce wing, a vertical stabilizer, and a diffuser. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Inside, the Tuatara Striker showcases a modified interior with an exposed carbon fiber dashboard and numerous Alcantara options, blending luxury with functionality. The Aggressor, designed explicitly for racing, includes a carbon dashboard, a roll structure, and a five-point racing harness with a special racing seat, underscoring its track-focused nature.

The rear of these two SSC North America hypercars includes an active high-downforce wing, a vertical stabilizer, and a diffuser. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

SSC North America offers almost limitless customization options with the Tuatara Aggressor, enabling owners to tailor performance, appearance, and experience to their preferences. Only ten units of the Aggressor will be produced, making it an exclusive collector's item. In contrast, the Tuatara Striker will have a production run limited to 100 units.

SSC North America will enable Tuatara Aggressor owners to customize performance, appearance, and experience, with only 10 units planned, while the Tuatara Striker will be limited to 100 units in production. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Although the prices for these new models are yet to be announced, it is anticipated that they will exceed the standard SSC Tuatara's starting price of approximately 1.6 million US dollars. SSC North America's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence is evident in the Tuatara Striker and Aggressor. These models push the boundaries of speed, design, and performance, setting new benchmarks in the hypercar segment. | Ab3dgPbrgzg |

For those fortunate enough to experience them, the Tuatara Striker and Aggressor promise an unparalleled driving adventure, embodying the pinnacle of automotive innovation and engineering prowess. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SSC NORTH AMERICA | MOTORAUTHORITY | ID.MOTOR1 ]

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Pangolina 444GT: The Soviet-Era Wedge-Shaped Sports Car

Forgotten ONES - For a moment, let us return to Russia during the Cold War, when the country was better known as the Soviet Union, stretching from Asia to Europe. Despite the common Western narrative influenced by the Soviet propaganda system, which projected an image of high technical capabilities and continuous development, instilling fear across the Western world, the Soviet Union's automotive industry was massive by producing around 2 million cars a year, it ranked as the sixth-largest manufacturer in the world during early 1980s.

The Pangolina 444GT was a unique, wedge-shaped sports car inspired by the Lamborghini Countach, built by Alexander Kulygin during the restrictive Soviet era. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

Back then, in the USSR, few families could afford a car, but that didn't mean there was no interest in them. On the contrary, many artisanal car projects captured people's interest. Immersed in the Cold War, the Soviet Union isolated itself from the West and aligned only with other communist countries. Everything appeared very restricted, but creativity found its way even in such an environment. An engineer from the Russian city of Ujtá, named Alexander Kulygin demonstrated this with his imaginative endeavor, building the only Pangolina 444GT. 

Alexander Kulygin behind the wheel of one of the most iconic Soviet sports cars, his creation, the Pangolina 444GT. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

During that era, Soviet vehicles were commonly viewed as outdated in terms of design and technology. Alexander Kulygin challenged this presumption, and aimed for something much more advanced. Inspired by the Lamborghini Countach, he set out to recreate similar inspiring sports cars with a Soviet twist. His talent and imagination ultimately resulted in one of the most iconic Soviet sports cars.

The Pangolina 444GT, featuring a unique dome entry mechanism that lifts upward, was built over three years based on a VAZ/Lada-2101. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)

The base of his creation was a VAZ-2101 Zhiguli, a licensed copy of the Fiat 124. It might seem daunting to turn a Fiat 124 into something akin to a Lamborghini, but Kulygin embraced the challenge. After three years of dedication, the Pangolina 444GT was ready in 1982. Its fiberglass body and tubular chassis showcased a remarkable design effort, featuring relatively modern lines that exuded a sporty vibe.

Inside of the Pangolina 444GT featuring with a simple dashboard using conventional parts, but the two aviation-inspired seats were comfortable. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

One of the innovative features was the row of four retractable front lights in the hood's center. These lights improved aerodynamics when not in use. The side windows, composed of three sections of glass, and handmade aluminum tires added to the car's unique appearance. Finding suitable sports tires was a challenge, but Kulygin succeeded.

The Pangolina 444GT, powered by a modest 62 hp 1.2-litre four-cylinder Lada engine, was placed just behind the front axle, attached to the dashboard, which had to be lifted for access. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)

The most striking feature of the Pangolina 444GT was its entry mechanism. Instead of traditional doors, a dome was designed to lift the roof, sides, and windshield. This heavy structure was operated by a hydraulic system. The large windshield provided excellent visibility, and Kulygin developed a unique wiper arm that efficiently cleared 95% of the glass surface.

The Pangolina 444GT, with its fiberglass body nested on a tubular chassis, showcased a remarkable design effort, featuring modern lines that exuded a sporty vibe. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

Under the hood, instead of an engine, there were radiators and the battery due to the hood's wedge shape. The engine was placed just behind the front axle, attached to the dashboard, which had to be lifted for access. This unconventional placement required several innovative solutions for components like the steering and air filter. Two fuel tanks were positioned in front of the rear axle.

A detailed cutaway of the Pangolina 444GT was published in a technical leaflet during the Soviet era, showcasing the incredible achievement of a single individual in designing this car. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)

With its front-central engine placement, the Pangolina 444GT was one of the few Soviet cars with such a configuration. The 1.2-litre, four-cylinder Lada engine produced a modest 62 hp. While not powerful by Western standards, it was impressive for Soviet roads, allowing the car to reach a top speed of 180 km/h.

During its heyday, the Pangolina 444GT was painted blue and gained fame as a Russian star during its tour in the USSR, even making an appearance in the 1985 film "Секрет 'Лауры' (Laura's Secret). (Picture from: DNA.fr)

The dashboard was simple, using conventional parts, but the two aviation-inspired seats were comfortable. Instead of rear-view mirrors, Kulygin used a periscope for rear visibility right up the the driver-side. The car gained attention in Moscow, featuring in exhibitions, newspapers, and even a film. It made an international appearance at the Expo-85 car exhibition in Bulgaria, where modifications were made for compliance, including additional lights and mirrors.

This is not the second iteration of the Pangolina 444GT, but a reconstruction result after an accident in the mid-1990s, featuring a targa roof, more conventional doors, and a reinforced bottom. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)

Despite the modifications, the Pangolina retained its charm. Kulygin never built a second unit, and he continued using it until an accident in the mid-1990s. The dome was damaged, leading to a reconstruction that included a targa roof, more conventional doors and reinforcement of the car's bottom. The car was repainted red, inspired by Ferrari, but some original charm was lost with modern updates like a new steering wheel, red and black upholstery, and a CD radio with a subwoofer.

The Pangolina 444GT was repainted red, inspired by Ferrari, but some original charm was lost with modern updates like a new steering wheel, red and black upholstery, and a CD radio with a subwoofer. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)

Alexander Kulygin's innovative spirit was recognized, and he joined Russian automaker AZLK in the late 1980s. He emigrated to the United States in the mid-1990s, starting a business developing and selling car kits based on the Pontiac Fiero. Tragically, he died in a traffic accident in 2004. His legacy, the Pangolina 444GT, remains one of the most iconic and remarkable Soviet cars in history. This car stands as a symbol of boundless creativity and ambition that thrived even in the most restrictive environments, reminding us that ingenuity can flourish anywhere.

The reconstructed Pangolina 444GT, now on display at the Museum of Retro Cars in Rogozhsky Val, Moscow, is a testament to human creativity and determination. (Picture from: DepositPhotos)

The story of the Pangolina 444GT, (reportedly now sat on display at the Museum of Retro Cars in Rogozhsky Val, Moscow) is a testament to human creativity and determination. Despite the many restrictions of the time, Kulygin's innovative spirit shone through, creating a car that continues to captivate enthusiasts. 

It serves as a powerful reminder that even in the most challenging circumstances, visionaries can produce extraordinary achievements. This legacy encourages us to push boundaries and pursue our passions, no matter the obstacles in our path. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR.ES | VIARETRO | ALL-ANDORA | AUTA5P.EU | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCAR | AUTOPUZZLES | STORY-CARS | IMCDB.ORG | {PIATAAUTO.MD | DNA.FR ]

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David Beckham's Exclusive Maserati MC20: A Stylish Icon Revived

ONE-OFF - David Beckham, the iconic figure in English football, is not just famous for his prowess on the field but also for his exquisite taste in luxury cars. Recently, Beckham added another gem to his collection, the Maserati MC20 Fuoriserie DB Essentials, a testament to his love for high-performance automobiles. 

The Maserati MC20 Fuoriserie DB Essentials is a bespoke supercar meticulously designed by David Beckham. (Picture from: Maserati)

This sleek machine represents the epitome of Maserati's craftsmanship, marking a glorious return to the realm of supercars after a significant hiatus. As the MC20, bearing the initials of Maserati Corse and the year 2020, stands as a beacon of innovation and style in the automotive industry.

The Maserati MC20 Fuoriserie DB Essentials is part of a line co-created with high-profile celebrities and 'Friends of the Trident'. (Picture from: DetikOto)

What distinguishes Beckham's MC20 is its Fuoriserie Essentials edition, a line of cars co-designed by high-profile celebrities and 'friends of the Trident'. Beckham meticulously personalized this edition to perfection during his visit to the Maserati factory in Modena, Italy, where he tailored every detail, resulting in a bespoke masterpiece that recently graced the streets of Miami, capturing attention and sparking envy among car enthusiasts.

Beckham's Maserati MC20 showcases a perfect blend of style, performance, and personalization, featuring a glossy black body with a frosted black Trident logo on the grille and C pillar. (Picture from: Liputan6)

Among Beckham's impressive fleet of vehicles, the Maserati MC20 holds a special place, not just for its jaw-dropping price tag of US$ 275,000 but also for the sheer artistry and engineering excellence it embodies. While the specifics of Maserati's decision to collaborate with Beckham remain undisclosed, one can speculate that the desire to keep pace with his wife Victoria's ventures in automotive design played a role in this partnership. Victoria's acclaimed design of the Range Rover Evoque may have spurred Beckham's own foray into the realm of car customization.

Beckham's personal touch is evident with the 'For David' inscription in the cabin, highlighting the car's bespoke nature. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

The MC20's accolades speak volumes about its design prowess. Recognized as the 2021 European Product Design Award winner, this masterpiece draws inspiration from Maserati's illustrious MC12 model from 2005. Unlike its aggressive counterparts, the MC20 boasts a refined aesthetic characterized by elegant lines and a distinctive Maserati grille, front bumper, and headlights.

Step inside the MC20 to find a sophisticated interior that blends minimalism and sportiness, featuring a sleek center console, carbon fiber steering wheel, and prominent transmission lever. (Picture from: Marketeers)

Step inside the MC20, and you're greeted by a harmonious blend of minimalism and sporty allure. The interior exudes sophistication with a sparse yet functional center console, a carbon fiber-clad steering wheel, and a prominently positioned transmission lever. A 10-inch instrument panel adds a futuristic touch, completing the immersive driving experience. Notably, Beckham's personal touch is evident with the inscription 'For David' adorning the cabin, a subtle nod to the car's bespoke nature.

Beckham's Maserati MC20's powered by a potent Nettuno engine boasting a 3,000 cc V6 Twin Turbo configuration by generating a staggering 630 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque. (Picture from: DetikOto)

Beyond its visual splendor, the Maserati MC20 delivers exhilarating performance on the road. Housing a potent Nettuno engine boasting a 3,000 cc V6 Twin Turbo configuration, this supercar rivals the likes of Lamborghini, Ferrari, and McLaren. Generating a staggering 630 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque, the MC20 propels from 0 to 100 km/hour in a mere 2.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 325 km/hour.

In essence, Beckham's affinity for the Maserati MC20 transcends mere ownership; it epitomizes a harmonious blend of style, performance, and personalization. As he continues to leave an indelible mark in the realms of sports and luxury, Beckham's MC20 stands as a testament to his unwavering pursuit of excellence and distinction on and off the pitch. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MASERATI | AUTOEVOLUTION | SUPERCARBLONDIE | MARKETEERS ]

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Awaiting India’s First Electric Supercar: The Zuperspeed Hyperflux

WAIT & SEE - The global automotive industry, especially in the sports car segment, has experienced tremendous growth and innovation. Recently, there has been a surge of interest in new sports car models from lesser-known manufacturers. One such promising entrant called the Hyperflux is built by Zuperspeed Automotive, a startup based in Bangalore, India. Scheduled for launch in December this year, the Hyperflux aims to revolutionize the electric sports car market with a price range between £35,000 and £40,000.

India's first electric supercar, the Hyperflux, scheduled for launch in December 2024, is built by Zuperspeed Automotive, a startup based in Bangalore. (Picture from: TopGear)

India has not been a significant player in the sports car market, but the Hyperflux could change that narrative. This all-electric, closed-cockpit coupe features a striking design intended to capture attention with both its aesthetics and performance. Although specific details about the powertrain have not been released, the Hyperflux is expected to deliver around 300bhp, with a top speed of 155mph. Zuperspeed is also aiming for a dry weight of 1,100kg, with weight distribution optimized for better handling. The vehicle is projected to offer a range of 180 to 200 miles on a single charge.

The Hyperflux combines vintage appeal with modern electric vehicle technology, setting itself apart from other electric cars by avoiding an overly futuristic look. (Picture from: Zuperspeed Autootive)

For those desiring more power, Zuperspeed is considering a dual-motor version that could produce up to 800bhp. This high-performance variant would cater to enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience.

The Zuperspeed Hyperflux aims to revolutionize the electric sports car market with a price range of £35,000 to £40,000. (Picture from: Zuperspeed Autootive)

According to Ijaz Anvar, CEO of Zuperspeed Automotive, the design and inspiration behind the Hyperflux. Anvar explained that the design team focused on appealing to customers born in the '90s and 2000s, who often admire the classic car designs of that era. The Hyperflux aims to blend this vintage appeal with modern electric vehicle technology, distinguishing itself from other electric cars by avoiding an overly futuristic look.

Despite its retro exterior, the interior of the Hyperflux is expected to be modern and luxurious. Anvar highlighted the use of premium materials and advanced AI technology to enhance the driving experience. One key feature will be a unique driver-assist system that learns and adapts to a driver's behavior, providing real-time feedback and suggestions to improve driving skills, functioning almost like a co-driver.

Ijaz Anvar Founder & CEO Zuperspeed Automotive. (Picture from: ThePrint.in)

The Hyperflux will initially launch in India, with plans to expand across Asia and eventually to the United Kingdom by the first half of 2027. This rollout strategy reflects Zuperspeed's ambition to establish a strong presence in both domestic and international markets. As the automotive world eagerly awaits this new model, the Hyperflux has the potential to become a significant player in the electric sports car market.

As anticipation builds, all eyes are on Zuperspeed to see if the Hyperflux can meet its ambitious specifications and innovative promises. With the electric vehicle market rapidly evolving, new entrants like Zuperspeed are set to make impactful contributions, pushing the boundaries of what electric sports cars can achieve. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZUPERSPEED AUTOMOTIVE | TOPGEAR | THEPRINT.IN | MSN ]

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