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Bugatti Veyron Successor (Chiron) Spied Testing with BMW i8 as Hybridization Benchmark

We’ve spied Bugatti Veyron successor test vehicles on multiple occasions so far, but this is the first time when we can see what looks like a pair of machines that have moved from test mules to prototypes.
Bugatti Veyron Successor (Chiron) Spied Testing 1 photo
Photo: screenshot from Youtube
Tentatively named Chiron, the Veyron’s successor was recently spotted by Auto Bild, with the two prototypes being part of a larger high-octane machine convoy. Aside from the expected Veyron, a Super Sport World Record Edition model, we also have a BMW i8.

We spent a few days with BMW’s halo i car earlier this week and we were truly impressed by the drivability of the plug-in hybrid, so perhaps this is the area where the i8 sportscar is being used as a benchmark.

A supercar was also present, and we are talking about a Lamborghini Huracan. Sure, Lamborghini and Bugatti may be owned by the Volkswagen group, but we’re not sure why they used the V10 Bull.

Come to think of it, the Chiron prototype seems to use body solutions that are closer to what the Aventador offers. We are referring to the side air intakes, which are placed just aft of the rear windows, as well as to the air vents occupying a vast area of the rear apron. This is also were you can see what appears to be a pair of provisional taillights.

The tech side

While the Chiron is expected to be a plug-in hybrid, little is known about the electric side of its powertrain. As for the petrol side of this story, Bugatti is expected to seriously boost the W16 8-liter engine of the Veyron. The unit will gain direct injection and cylinder deactivation, with electric superchargers expected to be paired with turbos.

In case you're still asking yourself why VW went through the trouble of developing a W16 when they could've used their W12, this was a personal ambition of the now ousted Charirman of the VW Supervisory Board, Ferdinand Piech. His grandfather, Ferdinand Porsche, had created a supercharged W16 engine for Auto Union racecars back in the 30s, so it's not difficult to understand the man.

As a result, the W16 will deliver around 1,500 HP, as well as a serious jump in efficiency. In terms of performance, the 0 to 62 MPH sprint should be dealt with in around 2 seconds.

Despite the similarities between the Veyron and its predecessor, the Chiron is expected to use 92 percent new or upgraded bits and pieces. Bugatti should offer us its new pearl in 2016.

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About the author: Andrei Tutu
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In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist.
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