Bugatti, the epitome of automotive excellence, marked a significant milestone in its 115-year journey with the grand unveiling of the Bugatti Tourbillon. This event heralded a new era for the brand, celebrated through an extravagant series of festivities at Château Saint Jean in Molsheim, culminating in the spectacular ‘La Grande Première’. This event showcased not just a new generation of performance vehicles but also a glimpse into the future direction of the brand, which has been a leader in the automotive world since its inception.
The launch of the Tourbillon was particularly noteworthy as it marked the first car introduced under the Bugatti-Rimac partnership and the first major gathering at Bugatti’s Molsheim headquarters since the 110th-anniversary celebrations in 2019. The week-long festivities honored the brand’s rich history and those who have been integral to its journey, including customers, partners, and employees, offering them unparalleled experiences.
The highlight of the week, the exclusive ‘La Grande Première’ on June 20, saw over 300 select guests come together to witness the future of Bugatti. Welcomed by Bugatti’s board of management, including CEO Mate Rimac, President Christophe Piochon, and Managing Director Hendrik Malinowski, attendees were treated to an impressive display of iconic models from the past. These included the Type 57SC Atalante, Type 35, and Type 41 Royale, each representing the brand’s legacy of elegance, racing success, and luxury.
The festivities included an aperitif with Bugatti Carbon Champagne, where guests could admire the latest Bugatti Lifestyle creations, including luxury timepieces by Jacob & Co and the latest Baby Bugatti II. In the Remise Sud, typically used for customer personalization, a rare Centodieci was displayed alongside the legendary EB110, with live-sketching sessions led by Head of Sur Mesure and Personalization, Jascha Straub.
Following a fine dining experience in a 1920s-inspired luxury structure, anticipation built for the unveiling of the Tourbillon. CEO Mate Rimac recounted the brand’s storied history before revealing the new hyper sports car. The Tourbillon, driven by Bugatti Pilote Officiel Andy Wallace, emerged dramatically through a portal, embodying the theme “Form follows performance” with its all-new chassis, performance-honed body, V16 engine, and electrified powertrain.
Bugatti’s Director of Design, Frank Heyl, elaborated on the intricate design and groundbreaking innovations behind the Tourbillon, marking it as a new pinnacle of automotive excellence. The reveal event, streamed globally, allowed attendees to admire the car up close and engage with the Bugatti team.
Ahead of the World Premiere, a select group of Bugatti owners experienced a bespoke “Petit Tour” around Alsace, including a convoy of remarkable Bugatti creations. This private adventure concluded at Bugatti’s headquarters in Molsheim, setting the stage for the grand event.
On June 22, over 200 guests, including Bugatti enthusiasts and collectors, gathered to experience the Tourbillon up close, reinforcing the connection between Bugatti’s classic and modern worlds. Despite the rain, the event showcased the brand’s rich heritage and future vision.
To honor the dedication of Bugatti and Bugatti Rimac colleagues, a Family Day was held, attended by over 1,000 guests. The event included exclusive tours and activities, celebrating the hard work and dedication of the team behind the Tourbillon.
The Bugatti Tourbillon World Premiere was a grand tribute to the brand’s past, present, and future, underscoring the enduring spirit of excellence that has defined Bugatti for over a century. President Christophe Piochon encapsulated the event’s significance, stating that the Tourbillon represents the latest creation in their pursuit of perfection, paying homage to Ettore Bugatti’s vision while pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation and craftsmanship.
