In 2008, Bugatti embarked on the journey of creating what would eventually become the iconic Chiron. While the Veyron had only been in production for three years at that time, the team at Bugatti was already hard at work on its successor. Fast forward to 2016, when the world finally got a glimpse of the stunning Chiron at the Geneva Motor Show.
But the design process for the Chiron started long before its official debut. In fact, as early as 2008, Bugatti had created scale models of the car that showcased different design proposals. These 1:4 scale models, dating back 16 years, give us a fascinating look at the evolution of the Chiron’s design.
One of the striking features of these early scale models is the influence of the Veyron, particularly in the rear design. Some of the proposals feature quad taillights reminiscent of the Veyron, while others experimented with various shapes and configurations. It’s clear that Bugatti spent a considerable amount of time perfecting the design of the rear lights, eventually settling on the iconic thin LED horizontal strip that we see on the Chiron today.
The headlights were another area where Bugatti explored different options, including double vertical strips and various shapes that didn’t make it to the final design. Interestingly, the signature C-shaped “Bugatti line” was not present on all the design proposals, and some models also lacked the front and rear central fins that are now synonymous with the Chiron.
Despite the variations in design, one element that remained consistent across all the scale models was the exposed quad-turbo W-16 8.0-liter engine. This powerful engine was prominently displayed on each model, giving a glimpse of the heart that would power the Chiron.
Now, years later, Bugatti has decided to reveal these abandoned design proposals to the public. The National Automuseum The Loh Collection will host a two-day seminar on the hypercar’s design evolution, showcasing never-before-seen drawings and photos from 2004-2023. Former Bugatti design boss Achim Anscheidt will provide insights into how the Chiron came to be, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the creative process behind this automotive masterpiece.
The seminar, set to take place in Dietzhölztal, Germany on November 8-9, will also feature Bugatti Rimac CEO Mate Rimac. It promises to be a fascinating event for car enthusiasts and design aficionados alike, offering a rare glimpse into the evolution of one of the most iconic supercars of our time.
