Engineering Masterclass
We often overlook Bugatti as a brand nowadays; we’re so used to the idea that they exist in that realm of ultra-speed machines. However, back in the day, Bugatti was the pioneer of the Hypercar segment.
The Veyron pushed the boundaries of what was possible: an ultra-luxury, comfortable, yet otherworldly-powered coupe capable of 250 mph. To those who don’t know, the follow-up wasn’t supposed to be the Chiron; in the works at the time was a sedan version of the Veyron called the Galibier.
What Could Have Been
The Galibier concept was first shown around 2009, and as expected, it drew all the necessary attention it sought, given that it looks like a 4-door Veyron. YouTuber Horsepower Hunters recently did a walkaround of the concept, and it reveals some very interesting things.
Firstly, it looks much more sculpted and stylish than the Veyron. The Galibier, being a sedan, needed an element of flair, unlike the Veyron’s wider, more imposing stance. The iconic Veyron face is still present, but the rear is reminiscent of another VW stablemate, the Bentley Continental.
Inside the Galibier is typical of the luxury associated with Bugatti, fine leather complemented by polished wood touches, and even a $100,000 Parmigiani Fleurier Tourbillion watch that sits on the dashboard as a clock, and can be detached and wrist worn, an ultimate flex.
Some of the interior features were groundbreaking for the time, such as a liquid-crystal infotainment system and a rear infotainment screen that swivels when activated. Moving towards the powertrain, the engine sits under a bonnet that opens from both sides like a wing.
Under that theatrical hood is the same W16 engine found in the Veyron, but the big difference is that the Galibier has a dual-cascade supercharger, unlike the Veyron’s turbos. It still produced 1,000 metric horsepower (986 hp) and had a top speed of 217 mph. It even came with Flex Fuel technology, allowing it to run on normal fuel or bioethanol. Power was sent to an all-wheel-drive system through an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Horsepower Hunters/Youtube
Almost But Not Quite
So close was the Galibier to hitting the market that there was already an approved price tag of $1.4 Million (in 2009). Sadly, the French automaker made the decision to shelve it in favor of the Chiron, as it feared that it might dilute the brand’s image and focus on extreme performance.
It makes it even sadder to know that the concept featured in the video works; it has an engine and was even started and revved. While the Bugatti Galibier remains parked for now, executives at the brand have hinted over the years that a more “practical” model could still be considered. Whatever practical means in terms of Bugatti speak are, we’ll have to wait and dream.
Horsepower Hunters/Youtube
