The inevitable has been reached: the first new car to hit 300mph is a (possible) prototype of the upcoming Bugatti Chiron Supersport. Hitting a top speed of 304.77mph (490kph), The car, driven by Bugatti’s chief driver Andy Wallace, is the result of a joint effort from Bugatti, Michelin, and Dallara over six months of work. Through these three, what has never been achieved is real: a near-production vehicle hitting over 300mph.
The car featured an additional 25cm of length as a result of the new rear fascia as well as the exhaust from the Centodieci concept that debuted in Monterey. This longer tail, while visually stunning also improves aerodynamics and reduces drag. As a result, the car was able to stay planted on the track more than ever before. The 8.0 liter W16 still puts out just shy of 1600hp, and the car still used the same gearbox and awd system as the “normal” Chiron. The passenger seat has been replaced with several computers in order to properly monitor the car as it bombed its way around the track at Ehra-Lessien.
The true achievement comes in the tires, which many have speculated would not be able to handle such speeds. The tires, specially designed by Michelin, are true engineering marvels, as tires were the concern for Bugatti’ rivals in reaching the big 3-0-0 mark. The Hennessy Venom F5, although it hasn’t shown its production form, was speculated to be the first to this speed, but the lack of any tire capable of the speed while stable held it back.
Over the base Chiron, this stealth fighter of a car also features a revised front fascia for better airflow and reduced drag, allowing the car to take in much more air to power the four turbochargers. With its super-sleek design and blisteringly powerful engine, this car is truly a tour de force. With this, Bugatti has taken back its title of fastest manufacturer in the world, beating out Koenigsegg (previous record-holder), SSC, and Hennessy.
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