Bugatti transforms Chiron into track-focused Divo

BUGATTI Automobiles has revived its coachbuilding tradition by transforming the Chiron hypercar into the Divo, a model that is “tuned for agility, nimbleness and optimum handling performance on winding roads”.

Limited to just 40 units, the Divo sold out upon reveal to select well-heeled buyers, who each paid €5 million ($A7.93 million) to own an example. It is not yet clear when deliveries will start.

While the Chiron is famous for its straight-line performance, the Divo covers all aspects of the track due to its lower weight (down 35kg) and increased down force (up 90kg), with the latter a result of much improved aerodynamics.

Essentially a reskinned Chiron, the Divo optimises front-end air flow via its new bumper intakes – which receive more air due to the shape of the redesigned front spoiler – and wheelarch slats. This set-up also improves cooling for the brakes, tyres and radiator.

Additionally, the roof has been tweaked to form a space-inspired NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) air duct that increases air flow to the engine bay in combination with the latter’s new cover.

The rear end is punctuated by its height-adjustable spoiler that acts as an air brake when tilted forwards. This wing is 23 per cent wider than the Chiron’s at 1830mm.

Furthermore, the redesigned rear diffuser houses the Divo’s four exhaust tailpipes, contributing towards its 456kg of total downforce.

Aside from the Divo’s aerodynamics-focused upgrades, its exterior design is instantly recognisable as that of a Bugatti, with the slim LED headlights and three-dimensional tail-lights providing the greatest points of differentiation.

The Divo’s interior more or less carries over from the Chiron, aside from the removal of the storage compartments in the centre console and door trims to reduce weight, as well as the different trims and upholstery.

Changes have also been made to the chassis, which have resulted in the Divo’s top speed being electronically limited to 380km/h, down 40km/h on the Chiron, which is rumoured to be capable of a 463km/h terminal velocity.

As such, the Divo lacks the Chiron’s Top Speed driving mode that is required to hit its 420km/h terminal velocity, with the reduction made to increase camber, while lateral acceleration reaches 1.6g.

The steering and suspension have been retuned “to ensure more direct response and significantly sportier driving behaviour”, according to Bugatti, while the Divo’s aforementioned weight loss is partly due to its lightweight alloy wheels and carbon-fibre intercooler cover, among other changes.

Motivated by the same 8.0-litre quad-turbocharged W16 petrol engine as its Chiron sibling, the Divo produces an eye-watering 1103kW of power at 6700rpm and 1600Nm of torque from 2000 to 6000rpm.

Claimed fuel consumption on the combined cycle test is 22.5 litres per 100 kilometres, while carbon dioxide emissions have been tested at 516 grams per kilometre.

According to Bugatti Automobiles president Stephan Winkelmann, the Divo represents a change in approach for the French brand and the response to it has been positive.

“To date, a modern Bugatti has represented a perfect balance between high performance, straight-line dynamics and luxurious comfort,” he said.

“Within our possibilities, we have shifted the balance, in the case of the Divo, further towards lateral acceleration, agility and cornering. The Divo is made for bends.

“The feedback from our customers was overwhelming. The Divo is a further project intended to thrill people and the world. Our fans are very important to us.”

Revealed at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in Monterey County, California, the Divo is named after French racing driver Albert Divo, who was a two-time winner of the Targa Florio race in Sicily, Italy, during the late 1920s.