Son of Bugatti Veyron Creator Reveals 1,000-HP Electric Beast
In the realm of high-performance electric vehicles, a powerful new contender is about to make its debut. The Piëch GT, a 1,000-horsepower electric sports car, has been unveiled by none other than Toni Piëch, son of the legendary Ferdinand Piëch who fathered the Bugatti Veyron. Expected for release in three years at a premium price of $200,000, the Piëch GT promises to redefine what an electric sports car can be.
Redefining Performance
The Piëch GT is not just another entry into the burgeoning electric vehicle market; it’s a statement. The car boasts a monumental 1,000-horsepower output courtesy of its innovative Dual2Drive system. This cutting-edge technology comprises two independently operable electric motors, each producing a robust 503 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The result? A combined total of over 1,000 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque, rocketing the car from 0 to 62 mph in a breathtaking 2.6 seconds, and pushing it to a top speed of 187 mph.
The driving range is equally impressive, estimated at 312 miles on the generous WLTP testing cycle. But what truly sets the Piëch GT apart is its rapid recharging capability. Thanks to the ingenious engineering, this beast can feed energy at a constant maximum of 500 kW. This enables it to boost the state of charge from 10% to 80% in under 10 minutes, a significant feat given current infrastructural limitations.
Unprecedented Customization
Toni Piëch and his team have ensured that every Piëch GT will be unique. Future owners can personalize their vehicles to extraordinary lengths, from refining the soundtracks and drive modes to even tailoring artificial vibrations to their taste. Not to mention, each of the independently controlled rear motors allows for customized traction, torque vectoring, and locking levels, tailoring the driving experience to match the driver's skill level rather than preset parameters.
Moreover, the car will explore steer-by-wire technology, much like what is being implemented in the Tesla Cybertruck. This aspect alone promises a next-level driving experience that could revolutionize how performance electric vehicles are perceived.
Sleek Design and Carbon-Fiber Construction
Aesthetically, the Piëch GT is a marvel. It's built upon a carbon-fiber monocoque housing a 16-module battery pack with 312 cylindrical 21700 cells, offering a capacity of 90 kWh. The front features an aluminum sub-assembly that houses a multi-link steel sprung suspension, which mirrors the rear setup where the axle module is made of steel. This configuration results in a vehicle measuring 188.2 inches long, 78.7 inches wide, 53.1 inches tall, and a 109.4-inch wheelbase.
Weighing in at around 4,000 lbs, the vehicle rides on 22-inch wheels, which could potentially house optional carbon fiber brake discs if demand warrants.
A Vision for the Future
The Piëch GT is only the beginning. The brand aims to produce around 2,000 cars in 2028 and 2029, steadily increasing to 4,500-5,000 units annually with the launch of the second vehicle, a four-door sedan. By 2033, when the GT will enter its second lifecycle, we can expect even more exciting developments, including a Purosangue-style SUV.
Production is slated to begin with the help of Multimatic in 2028, a firm well-known for its work on high-end vehicles like the Ford GT and the new Mustang GTD. Positioned similarly to the Porsche Taycan Turbo in terms of performance and pricing, the Piëch GT represents a thrilling prospect for anyone seeking high-end electric mobility.
So while the Piëch GT may wear a badge connected to the legendary Bugatti Veyron creator, it’s charting its own course—a path defined by unparalleled performance, vast customization possibilities, and a compelling vision for the future of electric vehicles.
The Legacy Continues
Toni Piëch may be following in the footsteps of his father, Ferdinand, but he is clearly carving out his niche. With such a promising debut in the form of the Piëch GT, the future looks bright for this fledgling automaker. As the industry continues to evolve, the Piëch GT stands as a symbol of what's possible when tradition meets innovation.