Bugatti has officially concluded the production of its exclusive Bolide track car, delivering the final unit to a discerning collector. This milestone signifies the near-end of an era for Bugatti's iconic W-16 engine, with only the Mistral model remaining in production to feature this legendary powerplant. The Bolide, a hypercar designed solely for track use, represents the pinnacle of Bugatti's engineering prowess, and its completion paves the way for the brand's future, which includes a new V-16 hybrid powertrain.
The 40th and last Bugatti Bolide was handed over directly at the Molsheim factory in northeastern France. This track-focused machine, priced at an astounding €4 million, is destined for a distinguished Bugatti enthusiast whose collection already boasts a classic Type 35 and a Veyron Grand Sport. The owner's preference for this particular Bolide's Black Blue and Special Blue Lyonnais exterior, complemented by a Lake Blue Alcantara interior, highlights the car's exquisite customization. Intriguingly, there are discussions about potential road-legal conversions, with British engineering firm Lanzante reportedly exploring options for a licensed Bolide.
While the Bolide's production run has concluded, the W-16 engine's story isn't quite over. The Bugatti Mistral, a limited-edition roadster with 99 units, is currently undergoing customer deliveries. This model will be the ultimate road-going expression of the W-16, an engine that debuted two decades ago with the Veyron. Once Mistral production wraps up, the W-16 will officially be retired, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in automotive history.
Looking ahead, Bugatti is preparing for its next generation of hypercars. The Chiron's successor, the Tourbillon, will feature an all-new V-16 engine developed by Cosworth. This new powerplant eschews the quad-turbo setup of its predecessor in favor of a naturally aspirated 8.4-liter configuration, integrated into a hybrid system. This shift reflects Bugatti's commitment to meeting evolving emissions regulations while continuing to push the boundaries of performance and luxury.
Even after the W-16's official retirement, its legacy may live on through Bugatti's new Programme Solitaire. This initiative focuses on bespoke, one-off commissions utilizing existing powertrains and chassis, much like the recently unveiled Brouillard. This strategy allows Bugatti to re-imagine older models with updated styling and hardware, ensuring that the spirit of its past masterpieces, akin to how Pagani continues to evolve its Zonda, endures for years to come.
The cessation of Bugatti Bolide's production signifies a pivotal moment for the prestigious automaker, as it embraces a future defined by innovative hybrid technology while honoring the illustrious heritage of its W-16 powered machines. This transition underscores a strategic evolution, balancing tradition with the demands of modern automotive engineering and environmental considerations.
