Electric Cars

Bugatti has officially concluded the production of its exclusive Bolide track car, delivering the final unit to a discerning collector. This milestone signifies the near-end of an era for Bugatti's iconic W-16 engine, with only the Mistral model remaining in production to feature this legendary powerplant. The Bolide, a hypercar designed solely for track use, represents the pinnacle of Bugatti's engineering prowess, and its completion paves the way for the brand's future, which includes a new V-16 hybrid powertrain.

The 40th and last Bugatti Bolide was handed over directly at the Molsheim factory in northeastern France. This track-focused machine, priced at an astounding €4 million, is destined for a distinguished Bugatti enthusiast whose collection already boasts a classic Type 35 and a Veyron Grand Sport. The owner's preference for this particular Bolide's Black Blue and Special Blue Lyonnais exterior, complemented by a Lake Blue Alcantara interior, highlights the car's exquisite customization. Intriguingly, there are discussions about potential road-legal conversions, with British engineering firm Lanzante reportedly exploring options for a licensed Bolide.

While the Bolide's production run has concluded, the W-16 engine's story isn't quite over. The Bugatti Mistral, a limited-edition roadster with 99 units, is currently undergoing customer deliveries. This model will be the ultimate road-going expression of the W-16, an engine that debuted two decades ago with the Veyron. Once Mistral production wraps up, the W-16 will officially be retired, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in automotive history.

Looking ahead, Bugatti is preparing for its next generation of hypercars. The Chiron's successor, the Tourbillon, will feature an all-new V-16 engine developed by Cosworth. This new powerplant eschews the quad-turbo setup of its predecessor in favor of a naturally aspirated 8.4-liter configuration, integrated into a hybrid system. This shift reflects Bugatti's commitment to meeting evolving emissions regulations while continuing to push the boundaries of performance and luxury.

Even after the W-16's official retirement, its legacy may live on through Bugatti's new Programme Solitaire. This initiative focuses on bespoke, one-off commissions utilizing existing powertrains and chassis, much like the recently unveiled Brouillard. This strategy allows Bugatti to re-imagine older models with updated styling and hardware, ensuring that the spirit of its past masterpieces, akin to how Pagani continues to evolve its Zonda, endures for years to come.

The cessation of Bugatti Bolide's production signifies a pivotal moment for the prestigious automaker, as it embraces a future defined by innovative hybrid technology while honoring the illustrious heritage of its W-16 powered machines. This transition underscores a strategic evolution, balancing tradition with the demands of modern automotive engineering and environmental considerations.

Toyota's highly anticipated flagship performance vehicle, the GR GT, is set to make its grand debut, exciting automotive enthusiasts worldwide. After nearly four years since the initial GR GT3 concept was unveiled, Toyota's Gazoo Racing division has confirmed the name and offered a tantalizing glimpse into the supercar's design and powertrain. This new model aims to redefine performance and luxury, promising an exhilarating experience for its future owners.

Toyota GR GT: A Glimpse into the Future of Performance

The journey of Toyota's latest supercar began nearly four years ago with the reveal of the GR GT3 concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon. Initially, there was speculation that the road-going version might bear a Lexus badge. However, Toyota clarified earlier this year that the vehicle would proudly represent the Gazoo Racing banner, emphasizing its pure performance lineage. The official name, GR GT, has now been unveiled, signaling the arrival of a true high-performance machine.

A recent television commercial aired in Japan provided an exciting sneak peek at the GR GT. The video showcased the new model alongside its iconic predecessors, the LFA and the 2000GT, paying homage to Toyota's rich heritage in performance vehicles. The auditory experience in the teaser was particularly noteworthy, featuring the thunderous roar of a V10 engine, followed by what is believed to be the powerful sound of a V8, hinting at the new car's impressive powertrain.

Despite a deliberate dimming of the video's brightness to maintain an aura of mystery, eagle-eyed viewers could still discern significant design details. The GR GT boasts pronounced wide hips, indicative of its aggressive stance and performance-oriented design. Furthermore, the distinctive front and rear lighting signatures appear to draw inspiration from the forthcoming 2026-spec GR010 Le Mans hypercar, reinforcing its racing DNA.

Beyond the street-legal version, Toyota has confirmed plans for a GT3-spec endurance racer, underscoring its commitment to motorsport. The company also recently announced a new V8 engine, which is widely expected to power the GR GT. This twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, possibly incorporating hybrid technology, is anticipated to extend its influence beyond the supercar, potentially appearing in Lexus's luxury offerings and even some regular Toyota models.

While an official price has not been released, industry experts predict the GR GT will command a six-figure sum, likely exceeding $150,000. This estimate is based on Toyota's benchmark testing against high-performance rivals such as the previous-generation AMG GT. While it is expected to be more accessible than the highly exclusive LFA, which retailed for $375,000, Toyota and Lexus are keen to position the GR GT competitively against other luxury performance brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren.

The GR GT's global premiere is scheduled for next Friday, December 5, Japan time, meaning enthusiasts in America might catch the online reveal late on Thursday, December 4. Following this digital unveiling, the vehicle will make its public debut at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, held from January 9-11, where it is sure to captivate a global audience.

The unveiling of the Toyota GR GT represents a significant moment for the automotive industry, blending cutting-edge engineering with a rich legacy of performance. As a journalist, I am particularly excited by Toyota's dedication to pushing the boundaries of what a road-going supercar can be, while also paying homage to its storied past. The anticipation around the GR GT's V8 engine and its potential hybrid integration points towards a future where raw power meets environmental consciousness. This vehicle isn't just about speed; it's about a holistic driving experience that challenges established norms and sets new benchmarks. I believe the GR GT will not only be a commercial success but also a pivotal model that inspires a new generation of performance vehicles.