Latest news with #Cosworth
Sustainability Times
9 hours ago
- Automotive
- Sustainability Times
'1,800 Horsepower Unleashed': Bugatti Tourbillon's V16 Engine Screams to 9,000 RPM in Unprecedented Hypercar Debut
IN A NUTSHELL 🚗 Bugatti Tourbillon features an innovative V16 engine, developed with Cosworth, delivering 1,800 horsepower. features an innovative V16 engine, developed with Cosworth, delivering 1,800 horsepower. 🔋 The car integrates a sophisticated hybrid system , developed with Rimac, enhancing performance with three electric motors. , developed with Rimac, enhancing performance with three electric motors. ⚡ A 24.8-kWh battery provides over 37 miles of electric-only range, showcasing Bugatti's commitment to efficiency. 🏎️ Currently in its Validation Prototype phase, the Tourbillon is set to redefine hypercars with its unique blend of power and technology. In the world of hypercars, Bugatti has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. With the unveiling of the Bugatti Tourbillon, the storied automaker has once again redefined the limits of performance and innovation. This new model, which succeeds the Chiron, boasts an awe-inspiring V16 hybrid powertrain. Developed in collaboration with engineering specialists at Cosworth and Rimac, the Tourbillon is designed to set new standards in the automotive industry. With a combined output of 1,800 horsepower from both the combustion engine and electric motors, the Tourbillon promises to deliver a driving experience unlike any other. Revolutionary V16 Engine: The Heart of the Tourbillon At the core of the Bugatti Tourbillon lies a groundbreaking 8.3-liter V16 engine, meticulously crafted in partnership with Cosworth. This engine is a departure from the quad-turbocharged W16 engines used in previous models like the Veyron and Chiron. Instead, Bugatti has opted for a naturally aspirated configuration, allowing the engine to reach a redline of 9,000 RPM. With 1,800 horsepower at its disposal, the V16 engine is a testament to Bugatti's commitment to engineering excellence and performance. Bugatti's decision to collaborate with Cosworth highlights the company's dedication to incorporating cutting-edge engineering solutions into its vehicles. The naturally aspirated design not only provides exhilarating power but also enhances the overall driving experience by delivering an unmistakable engine note. This bold move underscores Bugatti's belief that the Tourbillon will redefine the hypercar landscape, offering a thrilling combination of power, performance, and innovation. 'Bury Them Deep': Nuclear Reactors Planted One Kilometer Underground Could Deliver Cheap and Ultra-Safe Energy for Decades Hybrid System Integration: Enhancing the Driving Experience In collaboration with Rimac, Bugatti has seamlessly integrated the V16 engine into a sophisticated hybrid system. The goal of this system is to use electric power not as a substitute but as a complement to the combustion engine. As Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac, explained, this approach challenges conventional thinking about electrification in high-performance vehicles. The electric motors, three in total, are strategically placed to enhance the Tourbillon's capabilities. The two electric motors situated on the front axle and one on the rear contribute an additional 800 horsepower to the V16 engine's output. This results in a combined total of 1,800 horsepower, providing an unparalleled driving experience. The rear motor, capable of reaching 24,000 RPM, also enables torque-vectoring, which significantly improves the car's handling dynamics. This hybrid system showcases Bugatti's innovative approach to achieving performance excellence while maintaining the emotional thrill of driving a high-revving V16. 'This Coding Trick Cuts 30% of Power Use': Data Centers Worldwide Could Be Transformed by This Shockingly Simple Energy Hack Battery System for Powerful Performance The Bugatti Tourbillon's electric motors are powered by a 24.8-kWh, 800-volt T-shaped battery pack. This battery system serves multiple functions, including delivering torque at low speeds, reducing engine lag, and regenerating energy to charge the battery. Notably, the battery pack is integrated into the car's carbon composite monocoque, using the vehicle's structure as its casing to reduce weight. The battery allows for an electric-only range of over 37 miles, demonstrating Bugatti's commitment to combining performance with efficiency. The rear powertrain unit, which includes the V16 engine, transmission, and electric motor, weighs significantly less than the engine and gearbox of the Chiron. This weight reduction contributes to the Tourbillon's expected top speed of over 276 mph, solidifying its status as a leader in the hypercar segment. 'Trash Into Power': Scientists Create Batteries From Industrial Waste to Store Green Energy and Rewrite the Future of Sustainability The Future of Hypercars: Validation and Beyond The Bugatti Tourbillon is currently in its Validation Prototype (VP) phase, indicating that it is approximately 90-95% complete. This stage involves rigorous testing to ensure that the final product meets Bugatti's exacting standards. The introduction of the Tourbillon marks a pivotal moment in Bugatti's journey, as it combines a large-displacement, naturally aspirated engine with a hybrid electric system. With its innovative design and engineering prowess, the Tourbillon is set to become a benchmark in the hypercar industry. Bugatti's commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance, coupled with its embrace of hybrid technology, is a testament to the brand's enduring legacy. As the Tourbillon moves closer to production, one cannot help but wonder how this remarkable vehicle will influence the future of high-performance automobiles. Will the Tourbillon inspire a new wave of hybrid hypercars that balance power, efficiency, and sustainability? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.4/5 (24)
Auto Blog
17 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Disenchanted Aston Martin Valkyrie Owner Files A Dramatic Lawsuit
Valkyrie Owner Says Valkyrie Is Unsafe, Unreliable We've all seen a new hypercar and dreamed that, in the right circumstances, we'd gladly make numerous comfort and practicality concessions to experience their brilliance in other areas. But one such buyer in Germany believes the incomparable Aston Martin Valkyrie pushes the limits of one's compromise beyond all reasonable measure. With a Cosworth-developed naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 capable of delivering over 1,000 horsepower at 10,500 rpm (with a redline at 11,100), it's to be expected that the highly strung engine will be fairly loud, but a new lawsuit suggests that the visceral noise it makes is dangerous, and wearing the protective headphones that must be used whenever the car is driven could actually put drivers of the Valkyrie in danger. And that's far from the only issue he's faced in his time owning the car, reports local publication Handelsblatt. Noise Nearly Caused 'A Fatal Accident' Source: Aston Martin The publication protected the disenchanted owner's identity with the alias Sebastian Kunze. Herr Kunze claims that on the 27th of August, the headphone system failed. As a result of the extreme noise, he alleges, he nearly crashed into an ambulance, despite the latter blowing its horn. The publication did not use the German word for siren, but one should surely be able to hear any car horn when driving anyway. After that encounter, Kunze's lawyer, Marco Rogert, says he hasn't dared drive the car again. Not that Kunze appears to want to, anyway. Kunze bought the car in February 2022 for €3 million, or around $3.5 million. But in the three years and 271 miles since, he's allegedly had numerous issues. One of the biggest was an issue with the 'Rocket Locker,' a locking system that keeps the car's hydraulic suspension from sagging when power is cut off. This was allegedly removed without Kunze's knowledge, causing the car to rest on its wheels. He claims this led to visible damage 'during transport and visits to the workshop.' Following this, and a claim of numerous warning lights related to the high-voltage hybrid system shortly after taking delivery, he wanted to return the car, but then Aston Martin told him to pay a usage fee of roughly €55,000 (~$63,000) for the 441 km/271 miles he'd done. Something Doesn't Add Up An Aston Martin statement obtained by Handelsblatt, apparently in response to the cost-per-mile Kunze was asked to pay, reportedly said, 'Most owners drive around 300, and certainly no more than 1,000 kilometers per year.' Kunze also reportedly took issue with the short service intervals, perhaps not understanding the highly specific nature of this barely legal hypercar. This isn't a Bugatti Tourbillon, meant to crush continents at 250 mph without breaking a sweat or allowing its occupants to. This is an Adrian Newey-designed aerodynamic wonder that does the bare minimum to meet regulations. It's not meant to be used as a daily driver, and Kunze's argument that the Valkyrie had more defects 'than all my other cars combined' might seem a little sensational. Moreover, Aston Martin says that the blame for the damaged wheels lies not at the feet of the Rocket Locker system, but with the owner himself, saying that the car's issues are 'typical signs of wear or marks that arise from improper wheel replacement. In this context, we point out that the plaintiff insisted on changing the wheels on the vehicle himself and even purchased a jack set from the defendant specifically for this purpose.' Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Unfortunately, this case will likely drag on a little longer. The presiding judge suggested a mutual settlement, but after arguments about where the case could be tried, and two earlier attempts by Aston Martin to arrange trade-ins for the Valkyrie, a court ruling of some sort seems to be the objective. Each side has six weeks to submit further statements, and if the Aachen Regional Court declines jurisdiction, the case may have to be argued back in the United Kingdom, where Aston wanted the case heard in the first place. About the Author Sebastian Cenizo View Profile
NZ Autocar
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
Aston Martin Valkyrie LM - the ultimate track day car?
Ten wealthy individuals will soon uplift the keys to the world's ultimate track day car. Aston Martin has launched the Valkyrie LM as a V12-engined, Le Mans-spec gentleman's racer. Unlike the Valkyrie AMR Pro, a track-only Valkyrie, the Valkyrie LM is based on Aston's LMH hypercar that will soon race at the 24 hours of Le Mans. It therefore comes with a 523kW 6.5-litre Cosworth V12 that drives the rear wheels through a seven-speed semi-automatic sequential gearbox. The engine redline is 8400rpm while top speed is 336km/h. Slowing the racer are six-pot calipers clamping on carbon discs all round. Suspension is by double wishbones each end with pushrod-activated torsion bar springs. Damping is adjustable front and rear. Aston Martin has made a number of modifications so the Valkyrie LM is fit for track day use. First off, the V12 will run on fuel from a public pump. The firm has also removed the ballast and FIA-regulation electronic systems, along with the racer's torque sensors. It weighs in at 1030kg dry. There's an immense amount of aero. Otherwise, this is a Le Mans car that can be run around any track. It retains a carbon fibre race seat with six-point harness, a fire suppression system and track tyres by Pirelli. An Aston Martin spokesperson commented: 'It is important to emphasise that the Valkyrie LM is close to identical to the race car that is currently competing in WEC and IMSA. 'Only a few minor deviations were needed to ensure it is a non-homologated variant and is accessible for customers to experience and enjoy.' Aston Martin will store and transport the cars as part of a support programme for owners. The concept aims to offer the 'ultimate top-flight motorsport experience'. Included is a team of engineers to help with car set-up, and to maintain it during the track days. AM will also provide professional driver coaches and simulator sessions. This ensures that customers can 'explore the limits of a machine designed to operate in excess of 320km/h on the fast, flat-out kinks of the most famous race track in the world'. Owners will be able to drive their cars for the first time at an 'exclusive handover event' in the second quarter of 2026. They will then be invited to track days at F1-standard circuits later in the year. Oddly, cost isn't mentioned.
The Drive
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Drive
$6.5 Million Aston Martin Valkyrie LM Costs Way More for Way Less Horsepower
The latest car news, reviews, and features. Aston Martin transformed its Valkyrie hypercar into a competition prototype to go endurance racing. It also offered an extreme, track-only version to 40 lucky and deep-pocketed customers, called the AMR Pro, without a hybrid system, just like the race car. But in a surprise twist, Aston has chosen to sell yet another track-focused Valkyrie—and this one is about as close to the machine that will fight for the overall win this weekend at Le Mans as anyone will ever be able to buy. For $6.5 million before taxes, to be exact. It's called the Valkyrie LM. Not unlike Ferrari's 499P Modificata, or the 963 RSP that Porsche built for Roger Penske, this car is mechanically identical to its motorsport counterpart, right down to its 6.5-liter, naturally aspirated Cosworth V12 that revs to 8,400 rpm and makes 697 horsepower. Enthusiasts will note that those figures are considerably less than the 11,000 rpm redline and 1,140 ponies of the street Valkyrie, but remember: This is the same car Aston races, and the Le Mans Hypercar formula carries certain constraints. Concessions have at least been made so the Valkyrie LM can run on a wider range of fuels, while ballast and electronics mandated by racing officials have been removed. About 700 hp might not seem like much in this era of uniting internal combustion and electricity for explosive, four-figure power. However, ditching the batteries and motors has made this Valkyrie exceptionally light at 2,270 pounds, compared to the roughly 3,000 pounds of the road car. All that thrust naturally goes to the rear wheels through a seven-speed sequential gearbox. In all likelihood, the AMR Pro will probably still be quicker; it also doesn't have a hybrid system to lug around, and makes roughly 40% more power. But, as Aston Martin CEO Adrian Hallmark says, the LM is built to achieve 'the purest and most comparable endurance-driving experience' possible. Track-only machines have been pushing beyond regulated race cars for decades, going back to the Ferrari FXX. Anyone looking for value for money on a spec sheet won't find it here, certainly not for $6.5 million. What they will find is an exact replica of a Le Mans prototype that they can keep in their garages, which Ferrari notably doesn't let 499P Modificata owners do. The race-spec similarities extend to the Valkyrie LM's chassis, which carries over the competition car's front and rear dual wishbones and pushrod-actuated torsion bar springs with adjustable side and central dampers. There's an FIA-grade fuel system, along with an FIA-compliant harness and fire suppression setup inside, too. Typically, by the time cars like the Valkyrie LM have been announced to the public, each one has already been spoken for. But an Aston Martin spokesperson told The Drive that's not the case for this car, and the 10 examples the company is slated to build don't yet have names attached. Pricing is expected to land around $6.5 million—over $2 million more than the AMR Pro which, again, is quicker on paper. That's a steep price for the full racing experience, though it also includes VIP treatment for its 10 owners. Aston will arrange for each one to earn their racing license at Silverstone (assuming they don't already have one), before a year-long program where instructors and engineers will follow them around to various tracks to help develop their driving skills and tune their cars to their liking. All the joy and personal growth of motorsport, without needing to win to keep your job. Being rich sounds nice. Got a tip? Send us a note: tips@
Top Gear
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Top Gear
You could own* this Le Mans-spec Aston Martin Valkyrie LM
Motorsport *Euromillions win likely required. How better to spend it than on a Le Mans special? Skip 13 photos in the image carousel and continue reading Anyone else spotting a trend? First we had the track-only Ferrari 499P Modificata, then the road-going Glickenhaus 007s, and just last week the (sort of) road-going Porsche 963. And now this : the Aston Martin Valkyrie LM. No prizes for guessing what the initials stand for. Launched to celebrate Aston's tilt at Le Mans glory this weekend – its first since the DBR1 conquered La Sarthe in 1959 – the Hypercar-derivative bandwagon has come full circle, because the LM is a track-only plaything. Only 10 will be built. Advertisement - Page continues below Like the AMR Pro, the LM goes without the, er, standard Valkryie's hybrid system and makes do with that piffling 6.5-litre Cosworth V12. Except the aim is to make it 'fully accessible to amateur drivers', so Aston's stuck with the regulation 697bhp and not the full 1,001bhp we know that engine's capable of. Yep, it's a My First Valkyrie… In fact, the goal is to change as little as possible from the homologated Hypercar without giving you a back door into the Le Mans 24hr itself. So ballast and FIA-mandated electronics have been thrown out, and a 'user-friendly' open-loop torque control system replaces the competition-style closed-loop sensors. You might like Meanwhile the V12 has been recalibrated for fuel you can actually get hold of, and… erm, that's about it. Like the racecar you still get a seven-speed sequential transmission with semi-automatic paddleshift, and the suspension remains insanely complex: double wishbones front and back, plus pushrod actuated torsion bars with adjustable side and central dampers. Aston says the setup has been optimised for track day driving, and it's fitted bespoke performance boots from F1 shoemaker Pirelli. Advertisement - Page continues below Ah, the cockpit's been tweaked actually; for better safety, access and visibility, says Aston, and all customers get their own custom carbonfibre race seat featuring an FIA-grade six-point harness. Just as well you won't be dealing with toll booths in this. The steering wheel integrates shift lights and a driver's display. Doubt it'll run Apple CarPlay, that. Those 10 lucky owners have the option of taking full possession of the LM themselves, or you can let Aston look after the car and enrol in a tailored development programme complete with driver coaching, simulator sessions and classroom prep to get the most out of your (likely very expensive) machine. Aston will even supply you with a helmet, HANS device, overalls, gloves and racing boots, moulded earpieces (because V12) and… fireproof undies. Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Look out for your regular round-up of news, reviews and offers in your inbox. Get all the latest news, reviews and exclusives, direct to your inbox. 'In all its forms, there is nothing on Earth that compares to Valkyrie,' says Aston CEO Adrian Hallmark. 'The Le Mans contender is unique amongst its peers, not least the breathtaking 6.5-litre V12 engine that provides the beating heart for the only competitive hypercar bred from a road car. 'Valkyrie LM is an exquisite opportunity to be part of the most exclusive Aston Martin owners club in the world; a group who can immerse themselves in the purest and most comparable endurance driving experience, one that would otherwise only be available to our works drivers operating at the very limit of sportscar racing's highest echelon. The LM will be ready to play with in the second quarter of 2026. Who knows, if Lance Stroll's wrists are still playing up and Aston's reserve drivers are pulled away from Le Mans at the last minute, you might just earn yourself a call-up…
