Rimac Technology powers Bugatti Tourbillon with battery and powertrain tech

Rimac Technology is making waves in the automotive world by powering the Bugatti Tourbillon with cutting-edge battery and powertrain technology. This collaboration between Rimac and Bugatti Rimac has led to the development of a remarkable hybrid system that blends a naturally aspirated 8.3-liter V16 engine with groundbreaking electric drivetrains, setting a new benchmark for performance in hyper sports cars.

At the core of the Bugatti Tourbillon lies Rimac Technology’s advanced electric powertrain. This innovative system features three high-performance electric motors—two at the front axle and one at the rear, collectively yielding an astounding 800 horsepower. These motors are capable of spinning up to a remarkable 24,000 revolutions per minute (rpm), showcasing Rimac’s expertise in creating high-density powertrains. The electric powertrain, combined with Rimac’s silicon carbide inverter technology, ensures not just peak performance but enhances efficiency and operational safety.

What stands out about the Tourbillon is that, despite its complex hybrid architecture, it is both shorter and lighter than its predecessor, which solely relied on a quad-turbo W16 engine. The new vehicle demonstrates Rimac’s commitment to challenging conventional automotive engineering while maintaining impressive weight efficiency. The Bugatti Tourbillon is powered by a unique 25 kWh battery pack, which not only serves as an energy storage system but also acts as a structural component, thanks to its innovative T-shaped design.

The battery system operates at an impressive 800 volts, incorporating oil-cooling technology with over 1,500 individual cells immersed in oil. This state-of-the-art arrangement is managed by Rimac’s fifth-generation battery management system (BMS), designed to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and safety throughout its lifecycle, conforming to the highest automotive safety standards.

The complete assembly of the rear powertrain, comprising the V16 engine along with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and a torque-vectoring differential, weighs around 430 kg. This aspect matches the weight of the Chiron’s engine, showcasing the advanced engineering behind the Tourbillon. The front electric axle also contributes minimal weight while providing instantaneous torque, enabling meticulous torque control capabilities.

Beyond propulsion, the electric motors serve multiple roles, acting as starter motors, generators, and performance enhancers. This multifunctionality leads to the elimination of traditional 12V starting systems and conventional belt-driven accessories, streamlining the vehicle’s design. The hybrid system enables more than 60 kilometers of pure electric driving range, creating a seamless integration with the naturally aspirated V16 engine’s power delivery.

Mate Rimac, the founder and president of the Rimac Group and CEO of Bugatti Rimac and Rimac Technology, encapsulated the significance of the Tourbillon project, stating, “This hybrid system not only delivers extraordinary performance but also demonstrates remarkable efficiency and packaging innovation.” He emphasized that such sophisticated engineering should be viewed as a showcase not only of Rimac’s capabilities but also of what is possible when creativity and advanced technology converge without compromise.

Additionally, Nurdin Pitarević, COO of Rimac Technology, spoke about Rimac’s broader mission, highlighting that while projects like the Bugatti Tourbillon serve as a testament to their technological prowess, the company also aims to produce high-quality battery and powertrain systems for a wider array of vehicles. Partnerships with established automakers like Porsche and BMW illustrate Rimac’s ambition to provide the same level of engineering excellence to mass-produced electric vehicles.

Beyond the impressive technological advancements in the Bugatti Tourbillon, the automotive industry continues to evolve with significant partnerships, such as the recent alliance between Dymag, Borbet, and Advanced International Multitech (AIM). This collaboration is set to accelerate the development of carbon hybrid and composite wheel technology, showcasing the industry’s shift towards sustainable and high-performance materials.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Rimac Technology and Bugatti on the Tourbillon signifies a monumental step forward in automotive engineering. By integrating advanced battery and powertrain technology into a hybrid system that maintains the essence of Bugatti’s high-performance ethos, Rimac is paving the way for the future of hyper sports cars. This innovative tale serves as a reminder of how far the automotive industry has come and a hint of the thrilling advancements yet to come, blending efficiency and sustainability with extraordinary performance. The Bugatti Tourbillon is not only a testament to Rimac’s capabilities but also a glimpse into the future of hyper-performance vehicles in an increasingly electrified world.

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