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| © Motor Trend Staff Bugatti Divo front three quarter 2 |
From Motor Trend
Last month, Bugatti CEO Stephan Winkelmann said the brand could benefit from a second model, but he didn't provide many clues as to how the range would expand. Now, he reveals Bugatti is considering an SUV, as well as hybrid cars.
"The brand is ready for more," Winkelmann said at the Paris Motor Show, reports Automotive News Europe. "The W-16 engine is at the core of the brand today, but it won't remain the heart forever."
The new Bugatti Divo, and the Chiron on which it's based, pack a 8.0-liter quad-turbo W-16 with 1,479 hp. But Winkelmann says the brand may add new engine and chassis variants. He said a hybrid engine "could be part of the future—you have consider social acceptance in terms of emissions."
If Bugatti approved an SUV, it would join the ranks of Ferrari, Lotus, Maserati, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, and fellow VW Group brands Lamborghini and Bentley. McLaren is one of the few exotic brands that hasn't jumped on board with the idea, although it will eventually build an electric supercar.
As we previously reported, a few key things must fall into place before Bugatti adds a second vehicle. The expansion will depend on Volkswagen Group sparing the investment amid its recent focus on autonomous tech and electric vehicles.
"We need to come up with a convincing pitch to our shareholders that justifies the related investment," Winkelmann confirmed at the Paris Motor Show.
