Monterey, CA – The California coast was once again the epicenter of automotive excellence as Monterey Car Week unfolded, drawing car enthusiasts and luxury brands from around the globe. This year, the prestigious event took on added significance as Bugatti bid farewell to the Chiron era and introduced the Tourbillon, a vehicle that not only honors the marque’s storied past but also sets the stage for its future.
The week-long celebration culminated at two of the most iconic events: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Bugatti’s participation was a spectacle of innovation and heritage, as the brand showcased models that epitomize its commitment to craftsmanship and design.
A New Icon Unveiled
On Friday, August 16, Bugatti presented the Tourbillon on American soil for the first time at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. This debut marked a significant moment for the brand as it transitions into a new era. The Tourbillon, with its naturally aspirated V16 engine paired with three electric motors and a design philosophy rooted in timelessness, captivated attendees. The car’s fully mechanical instrument cluster, crafted with the expertise of Swiss watchmakers, and the absence of digital screens, emphasized its dedication to both heritage and forward-thinking engineering.
Bugatti’s leadership team, including CEO Mate Rimac, President Christophe Piochon, and Design Director Frank Heyl, articulated the vision behind the Tourbillon. Displayed alongside the bare rolling chassis, the Tourbillon stood as a testament to Ettore Bugatti’s belief that “nothing is too beautiful” and that if something is “comparable, it is no longer Bugatti.”
A Celebration of Craftsmanship
Throughout Monterey Car Week, Bugatti enthusiasts were invited to Le Domaine Bugatti at The Lodge at Pebble Beach for an in-depth look at the Tourbillon and other models from the brand. The venue also featured Bugatti Lifestyle products, including a special edition Champagne Carbon bottle inspired by the Tourbillon’s elegant blue hue. Bugatti’s partnership with Hedley Studios, Jacob & Co, and Asprey further showcased the brand’s dedication to luxury and craftsmanship.
The private Domaine also reunited the Bolide and Type 35, which had earlier graced the track at Laguna Seca, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Type 35. Visitors also witnessed the final Chiron model, ‘L’Ultime,’ adorned with hand-written inscriptions of significant events that have defined the Chiron’s legacy, including its celebrated presence at Pebble Beach.
Triumph at Pebble Beach
Sunday’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance saw a stunning array of vintage Bugatti models, including the Type 57SC Corsica Roadster and the legendary Type 55 Roadster. These vehicles, embodying Bugatti’s dual commitment to elegance and performance, were among the highlights of the event. The Type 59 Sports, an unrestored masterpiece from 1934, won the coveted Best of Show award, marking the first time an unrestored car has achieved this honor at Pebble Beach.
This victory, along with other category wins, solidified Bugatti’s status as a leader in automotive design and innovation. The event also underscored Bugatti’s enduring legacy, as the brand continues to inspire and influence the future of luxury automobiles.
Looking Ahead
Following its successful debut at Monterey Car Week, the Bugatti Tourbillon will embark on a U.S. tour before returning to Europe for a showcase at the Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille in September. As Bugatti transitions into this new chapter, the Tourbillon stands as a symbol of the brand’s unwavering dedication to excellence, seamlessly blending its historic past with a visionary future.
