There are four Bugatti sports cars that represent automotive innovation like no others cars do.

It would come as a surprise that the four cars that represent innovation in automobiles in its purest form are all Bugatti sports cars. Showcasing the evolution of automobiles in a way that is unique and amounts to flexing the boundaries of what machines can really be or do what they are expected to do to the fullest, the four Bugatti cars are the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport World Record Edition, Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse World Record Edition, Chiron Super Sport 300+ and the W16 Mistral World Record Car.

Successful in carving out a niche, each of the four cars – ultra super cars – have come to represent Bugatti’s incomparable legacy. The Veyron 16.4 Super Sport World Record Edition, on a beautiful day of April 2010, achieved a new land speed world record for production cars on the proving grounds of the Volkswagen Group at Ehra-Lessien (nearby its headquarters at Wolfsburg). In the presence of the German Technical Inspection Agency (TÜV) and a representative of Guinness Book of Records, the Super Sport achieved an average top speed of 431 kmph!

Bugatti’s Pilote Officiel Pierre Henri Raphanel put his helmet and gloves on, pulled the safety belts tight whilst the engineers checked the car a very last time for tyre pressure, temperature and all the systems.

The orange-black Super Sport crossed the light barrier within one hour by driving from South to North and then in the opposite direction. The driver being the only one to touch the car during the record run, the description of the Veyron as its headlights appeared at a certain point of the track was of a jumbo jet coming closer and simply jetting by.

The GPS-tachometer recorded a speed of as much as 933 kmph. The average speed generated by the TUV and Guinness representatives was a whopping 431.072 kmph, which surprised even the Bugatti team.

The roadster version of Veyron 16.4 Super Sport World Record Edition, Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse World Record Edition, set the world speed record for open-top production sports cars at the Volkswagen Group’s proving grounds in Ehra-Lessien.

TÜV, the renowned independent German organisation for technical inspection and certification, officially confirmed that a top speed of 408.84 kmph was achieved when the super car was driven by the Chinese racing driver Anthony Liu in 2013.

On the market since the spring of 2012, the open-top sports car is fitted with an 8.0 litre W16 engine that pours 1,200 PS and a torque of 1,500 Nm at 3,000 to 5,000 rpm on the road. Its high-performance handling can be attributed to a racing chassis, which together with extremely fast-acting shock absorbers and reinforced anti-roll bars, guarantees exact control of both the four-wheel drive system and the entire vehicle.

The other factors that enable such performance at the upper limits include a standard carbon monocoque with high torsional rigidity and an outer shell made entirely of carbon fibre. With wind noise and air turbulence a particular concern with open-top vehicles, the Vitesse is offered with a specially developed roof spoiler along with an intricately designed windbreak that guarantees calm open-top driving.

The Chiron Super Sport 300+ is the fastest Bugatti ever made, redefining what is possible when it comes to speed and aerodynamics. Piloted by Bugatti’s Pilote Officiel Andy Wallace, the hypercar smashed through the 482.803 kmph (300 mph) barrier in 2019. Never had a production car reached such speeds ever!

Occupying a spot in the history and standing as a marker in the quest for greater performance and speed, the hypercar was fitted with a re-engineered version of Bugatti’s legendary 8.0 litre W16 engine that produced 1,600 PS of power. A new thermal management system for the engine and gearbox were developed. Refinements to the software governing the engine, gearbox and turbochargers were also made.

To ensure top notch stability, the car was fitted with a ‘longtail’ that extended the car length by approximately 25 cm. This allowed the laminar flow to pass over the body for a longer period of time, reducing aerodynamic stall by more than 40 percent. Air curtains adorning the hyper sports car’s front corners dispersed excess air pressure towards the car’s sides. Simultaneously, air outlets at the wheel arches and behind the front wheels guided excess pressure away from each wheel arch, reducing drag by also producing a small amount of negative lift. Liberal use of exposed carbon fibre – flowing through into the car’s engine cover and the windscreen wiper, thereby contributing to crucial weight-saving that helps the hyper sports car push the envelope of performance – was resorted to. Extremely light and strong magnesium alloy wheels were deployed.

Andy Wallace – Bugatti Pilote Officiel and winner of the Le Mans 24 Hours – assumed the controls of the one-off W16 Mistral World Record Car, warming up the vehicle’s bespoke high-performance tyres on a first anticipatory lap. Ascending to a specified speed of 200 kmph into the banking of the track (of ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg GmbH), he increased the speed before unleashing the full power of the vehicle as the straight opened up coming off the banking, taking it to new heights of record speed in November 2024. Under the meticulous control of SGS-TÜV Saar GmbH, the achievement of a new world top-speed record for an open-top car was officially confirmed at the end of the run, with Andy reaching an incredible 453.91 kmph.

The EUR 14 million hypercar is powered by an 8.0-litre, quad-turbo, W16 engine that does an impressive 1,578 bhp. Innovative is the W16 Mistral’s X-taillight arrangement, which channels hot air from the radiators through ducts towards the rear of the vehicle. The air is expelled through the vents in the X-taillight arrangement.

The hypercar’s ramp-design diffuser accelerates the air’s journey from the rear of the vehicle, which increases downforce and helps the model excel at high speeds. Contributing to the vehicle’s excellent stability are bespoke high-performance tyres.

MT

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has launched the new Hyundai Exter compact SUV with a starting price of INR 579,900.

The new Exter features more than 25 enhancements across its design and technology. It remains the tallest vehicle in its segment, measuring 1,643 mm in height and offers a wheelbase of 2,450 mm. Exterior updates include redesigned front and rear bumpers and a black radiator grille. New R15 diamond-cut alloy wheels and a wing-type spoiler. Additions of wheel arch cladding and a new centre garnish for the front facia.

The cabin introduces a dual-tone Navy and Grey theme with a 3D carbon-pattern dashboard finish. It gets segment-first metal pedals and a built-in dashcam. A wireless smartphone integration for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside a Type-C USB port for rear passengers. A boot capacity of 391 litres for petrol variants. More than 60 connected car features and 300 voice commands through Hyundai Bluelink.

The Exter comes with a 1.2 l Kappa Petrol engine, available with either a manual or AMT transmission. It also offers a Hy-CNG Duo variant featuring dual cylinders and an underbody spare tyre, which preserves 225 litres of luggage space.

Safety Specifications:

• Standard Safety: 30 features are standard across all variants, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC).
• Advanced Features: The vehicle includes more than 45 advanced safety features in total.

Tarun Garg, Managing Director & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said, "Since its debut, the Hyundai Exter has received an overwhelming response, earning the trust of over 200,000 customers across India. With its bold design and segment defining features, Hyundai Exter has played a pivotal role in reimagining the segment. Building on this strong foundation, the new Hyundai Exter embodies a reinvigorated spirit of 'Drive to shine', with refreshed styling, a more premium cabin, smarter connectivity and an enhanced safety package. These upgrades further strengthen its appeal among families and young explorers seeking a versatile SUV that seamlessly blends style, practicality and everyday usability. The new Hyundai Exter reaffirms HMIL's commitment to delivering world class technology, superior safety and a reliable SUV for young and ambitious India."

The new Exter is available in seven monotone and one dual-tone colour options, including the new Golden Bronze and Titanium Black Matte.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Japanese automotive major Nissan Motor India has introduced a 55-minute vehicle exchange initiative in partnership with Spinny. The programme allows customers to have their current vehicles evaluated on-site and apply exchange bonuses toward the purchase of a new Nissan vehicle within an hour.

The service is supported by dedicated evaluators across 30 cities. To facilitate the process, Spinny counters have been established at Nissan sales touchpoints, providing real-time assessments.

Key features of the collaboration include:

• Documentation: A 'selling letter' issued by Spinny is accepted as valid proof of exchange, removing the requirement for transferred RC documentation at the point of transaction.
• Lead Generation: The partnership integrates digital and physical touchpoints to manage used inventory and generate incremental leads for the dealer ecosystem.
• Product Eligibility: The programme applies to Nissan’s current India line-up, including the Magnite and the recently launched Nissan Gravite, which entered the market at an introductory price of INR 565,000.

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said, “At Nissan Motor India, we are committed to building a customer-first ecosystem that simplifies every stage of the ownership journey. Strengthening our collaboration with Spinny and introducing faster exchange timelines reinforces our focus on convenience, transparency, and value for our customers and dealer partners - while supporting our broader growth in the country.”

Niraj Singh, Founder & CEO, Spinny, said, “Our continued partnership with Nissan Motor India represents a shared commitment to simplifying car ownership journeys. With faster exchanges, expanded evaluator presence, and integrated dealership touchpoints, we are working together to make car upgrades seamless, transparent, and rewarding for customers across India.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

European auto major Stellantis has announced it will feature eight brands at the Paris Motor Show, scheduled for 12 to 18 October 2026. The group’s presence will be more than double that of the 2024 edition, occupying a 5,340-square-metre space in Hall 4 of the Porte de Versailles.

The exhibition will feature over 60 vehicles, including one public premiere and one European premiere:

• Lancia Gamma: Making its French debut, this flagship fastback will be produced at the Melfi plant. The model marks the brand's return to the upper segments and will offer both full-electric and hybrid powertrains.
• Leapmotor B03: A compact all-electric B-hatch making its European debut. The brand will also preview the B03X crossover and B05 hatch, both scheduled for launch in the second half of 2026.
• DS N°7: Official launch of the compact SUV, offering hybrid and fully electric versions with a range of up to 740 km.
• Fiat: The brand will unveil two new C-segment models and a concept car, alongside the Grande Panda and the Tris three-wheeled electric solution.

The automaker will have an interactive stand that will be divided into dedicated areas reflecting the specific identities of the participating brands:

“Inside its impressive 5,340-square-meter stand, located in Hall 4 of the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre, Stellantis will showcase more than 60 vehicles, highlighting a line-up capable of meeting every customer need – from urban micromobility to longer and more demanding journeys – thanks to the right balance of design, performance and functionality,” the company said in a statement.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Italian supercar manufacturer Automobili Lamborghini has recorded the highest revenue in its history for the 2025 fiscal year, reaching EUR 3.20 billion, which marks a 3.3 percent increase over the previous year and marks the second consecutive year the company has exceeded the EUR 3 billion threshold.

The company reported an operating income of EUR 768 million with a profitability rate of 24 percent. These figures were achieved despite a volatile macroeconomic environment and specific exogenous pressures.

Key Financial Impacts:

• Currency and Trade: Negative exchange rate fluctuations and the introduction of US tariffs influenced the operating result.
• Strategic Investment: Costs associated with the Direzione Cor Tauri electrification strategy were fully accounted for during the financial year.
• Mitigation: The impact of these factors was moderated through a refined product mix and cost control measures.

In 2025, Lamborghini delivered 10,747 cars, surpassing the 10,000-unit mark for the third year in a row. A significant driver of value was the Ad Personam personalisation programme, with 94 percent of all vehicles delivered featuring at least one bespoke element.

The Revuelto and the newly launched Temerario, which began customer deliveries in early 2026 – form the core of the brand's hybridisation strategy. The Temerario features a powertrain capable of 10,000 rpm, a first for a production engine from the manufacturer.

The current range, including the Revuelto, Urus SE and Temerario, is now fully hybridised. Lamborghini has also confirmed plans for a fourth hybrid model as part of its long-term industrial vision, which remains focused on sustainable growth alongside the eventual development of a fully electric vehicle.

For 2026, the company intends to unveil further product developments at international events, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Monterey Car Week.

Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO, Automobili Lamborghini, said, “2025 shows that the strength of Automobili Lamborghini lies not only in numbers, but in our ability to manage complexity. In a challenging global context, we continued to grow, protecting profitability and further strengthening brand value. Our strategy is clear: discipline, long-term vision and product centrality. This balance allows us to turn external challenges into opportunities for consolidation and to continue creating sustainable value.”

Paolo Poma, Managing Director and CFO, Automobili Lamborghini, said, “External factors and the volatility of the broader macroeconomic environment made 2025 a particularly challenging year. In this context, we have closed a positive financial and business 12 months, safeguarding our level of profitability, which positions us among the most profitable players in the global luxury sector. The results achieved confirm our objective of sustainable growth while preserving profitability.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!