Testing has begun on prototypes of the Bugatti Bolide following approval of the design for the extreme track car. Photos released by Bugatti show one of the prototypes and give us our first look at the finalized design, which is remarkably similar to the concept car presented in 2020, which was never intended for production but rather a challenge from then CEO Stephan Winkelmann to imagine a car developed without compromise.
One can spot a few differences between the concept and final version, such as a more prominent roof scoop, fewer fins behind the front wheel arches, the addition of side mirrors, and a revised rear wing with an adjustable component.
Bugatti previously confirmed that the Bolide would feature a unique carbon-fiber monocoque with an integrated roll cage, as well as bespoke cooling, transmission, and push-rod suspension systems, all designed specifically for the car. The engine, a quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W-16, is also mounted differently than in other Bugatti models.
Bugatti Bolide
The engine produces 1,578 horsepower on 98-octane fuel, or 1,824 hp on 110-octane racing fuel. Since the car is designed for track use, all four turbochargers are always in operation. The engine has also been tuned to rev higher than in other Bugattis.
The brakes are carbon-ceramic rotors that require a thorough warm-up before reaching peak performance. For this reason, Bugatti designed new calipers that generate and retain heat more efficiently, and special covers have been installed on the 18-inch wheels to protect them from the extreme heat generated by the brakes.
The car is equipped with Michelin racing slicks, with the rear tires being the same design as those used on LMDh sports prototype race cars competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
The target weight for the car is just under 3,200 pounds. Bugatti plans to build a little more than 40 cars, all of which are already sold, despite the car’s price tag of 4 million euros (about $4.4 million). The first deliveries are scheduled for 2024.
