At the core of this engineering marvel is Rimac Technology ' s advanced electric powertrain. It utilizes three high-performance electric motors: two on the front axle and one on the rear. These motors collectively generate 800 horsepower and can reach 24,000 rpm, driving an e-axle that boasts an industry-leading power density. The electric powertrain also incorporates Rimac ' s proprietary Silicon Carbide inverter technology and software, guaranteeing not only exceptional performance but also superior efficiency and operational safety. Remarkably, despite housing three motors, a battery pack, and a V16 engine, the Tourbillon is both shorter and lighter than its predecessor, which was powered solely by a quad-turbo W16 engine.
Rimac Technology ' s advanced 25 kWh battery pack powers the entire hybrid system. This innovative T-shaped, 800V battery acts as both an energy storage system and a structural component of the vehicle. It features Rimac ' s cutting-edge oil-cooling technology, with over 1,500 individual cells submerged in oil, all managed by the company ' s fifth-generation Battery Management System( BMS). Developed to ASPICE Level 2 standards and supporting ASIL D, the highest automotive safety standard, the BMS guarantees optimal performance, longevity, and safety throughout the battery ' s lifespan.
" The Bugatti Tourbillon project represents a perfect showcase of Rimac Technology ' s capabilities as a full-system integrator and technology provider. We ' ve leveraged our decade of experience in developing high-performance electric powertrains to create a hybrid system that not only delivers extraordinary performance but also demonstrates remarkable efficiency and packaging innovation. The fact that the Tourbillon, despite its complex hybrid architecture, weighs less than its predecessor is a testament to our commitment to pushing the envelope of possibility in every project.”
Mate Rimac, founder and President of the Rimac Group, CEO Bugatti Rimac and Rimac Technology
The V16 engine, eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, torque-vectoring differential, and 250-kilowatt rear electric motor make up the complete rear powertrain assembly, weighing a mere 430 kilograms. This matches the weight of the Chiron ' s engine on its own. The front electric axle, with its two independent motors and dual inverters, contributes minimal additional weight while offering instantaneous torque and advanced, precise torque control.
Beyond propulsion, the electric motors in the Tourbillon serve multiple functions, acting as starter motors, generators, and performance enhancers. This eliminates the need for traditional 12-volt starting systems and belt-driven accessories, contributing to the vehicle ' s exceptional power-to-weight ratio. The system also provides over 60 kilometers of pure electric driving range and seamless torque fill, complementing the naturally aspirated V16 ' s power delivery.
Rimac Technology provides crucial contributions beyond the core powertrain components. Their fully designed, developed, and produced hardware and software constitute the Tourbillon’ s electrical architecture, which is built upon three powerful domain electronic control units. These components adhere to the highest quality and functional safety standards. Additionally, Rimac Technology ' s expertise in thermal management has been vital in creating sophisticated cooling systems. This integrated approach ensures the battery pack and electric motors maintain peak efficiency and optimal performance, even when the 445 km / h hypercar is under extreme demands.
" This is exactly what we ' ve always been exceptional at, extremely bespoke, high-performance, lowvolume applications that are engineered without compromise. Projects like this will always serve as a showcase of our ultimate capabilities and what ' s possible when there are no constraints. But as well as these showcase projects, we also produce hundreds of thousands of battery and powertrain units annually, working with the likes of Porsche, BMW, CEER Motors and many others. It’ s our aim to provide the same engineering excellence and innovation we bring to projects like the Tourbillon to hundreds of thousands of other vehicles each year, helping established OEMs to bridge the gap to electrified vehicles.”
Nurdin Pitarević, COO, Rimac Technology
The Bugatti Tourbillon, featuring Rimac Technology ' s revolutionary hybrid system, will begin deliveries in 2026, with production limited to 250 units.
AUGUST 2025 31 WORD IN ACTION