Bugatti & Cosworth's Insane 986bhp 8.3 V16 Hybrid Engine – An Inside Look
In the ever-evolving world of hypercars, Bugatti's latest marvel is an 8.3-litre V16 engine, a beast that promises to usher in a new era for its successor to the Chiron. Unveiled in collaboration with the engineering maestros at Cosworth, this naturally aspirated powerhouse revs up to a staggering 9,000 rpm and gleefully churns out 1,000 brake horsepower— on its own. But wait, there's more. The new model will also embrace the future with a plug-in hybrid system, bumping the overall output to an eye-watering 1,800 brake horsepower.
Such raw power is paired with meticulous engineering details, like the 4-4 branch manifolds that are pure eye-candy for any engineering aficionado. But a significant question remains—how does it sound? The video takes us through the auditory experience, capturing the V16's deep, visceral tones that shake you to your core. It provides a complex sonic profile, combining a V8 rumble with the sophisticated high notes of an F1 car.
A Noteworthy Engine Design
The design philosophy behind this engine is one of pure performance and unique architecture. Unlike a pair of straight-8s or two V8s kept nose-to-tail, this V16 redefines massive scale with a resounding length of 39.3 inches. Including its 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, the total length extends to roughly 79 inches. To put it into perspective, that size outpaces the already gigantic Chiron’s quad-turbo W16.
Hybrid Power and Astonishing Performance
Why stop at internal combustion? This V16 beast will integrate a battery pack feeding three electric motors—two for the front wheels and one for the rear. It promises an electric-only range of about 37 miles, perfect for stealthy city cruising. And speaking of performance stats, brace yourself for 0-62mph in under 2 seconds, a top speed of approximately 277mph, and 0-186mph in less than 10 seconds. It’s an adrenaline factory, all encapsulated within the luxury of a Bugatti.
The Cosworth Connection
Bringing this monumental design to reality is Cosworth, stationed in Northamptonshire, UK. Famous for its stellar D12s powering the GMA T50 and Aston Martin Valkyrie, Cosworth already held a significant reputation in Formula 1 during its golden years. From blank screens to engines hot-tested and ready for production lines, Cosworth is more than just an engine tuner; it’s an innovation powerhouse that caters to hypercars and aerospace industries alike.
When Matej Rimac of Bugatti made that pivotal phone call, he wasn’t looking for something conventional. The task was straightforward yet profoundly challenging—develop a naturally aspirated, turbocharless V16 capable of delivering unrivaled throttle response and an exhilarating driving experience. And Cosworth took this challenge head-on.
A Conversation Piece
The resulting 16-cylinder marvel isn't merely about raw power but also serves as a mesmerizing conversation piece. Throughout automotive history, V16 engines were rare, showcasing unmitigated engineering prowess, from the Cadillac 16 to the Maserati and Alfa Romeo racing cars of the 1930s. In modern contexts, V16s have mostly been relegated to concept cars until now.
As Cosworth's MD Bruce Wood describes, the move from initial conversations to a state-of-the-art V16 involved consistent collaboration and innovation to maintain that it wasn’t just another engine, but a hypercar heart capable of providing an unmatched driving experience.
Future Horizons
Cosworth’s new CEO, Dr. Florian Kamlger, emphasizes the company’s journey from producing legendary engines for rally and Formula 1 to focusing on the hyper-luxury and ultra-wealthy segment of automotive markets. He likens the appeal of hypercars to the fascination with Swiss mechanical watches—objects of art and luxury, not mere tools. These hypercars epitomize Cosworth’s ethos of creating engineering art.
So, there you have it—a glimpse into the awe-inspiring world of Bugatti’s V16, brought to life by Cosworth. This engine isn’t just about reaching destinations; it’s about elevating the journey itself into an unforgettable experience.