Bugatti promises to shake up the automotive scene with the launch of the Destrier, an exclusive model equipped with 1,600 horsepower. The presentation of this hypercar is scheduled for the 16th during the renowned Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, held in California, United States. This event is globally recognized as the most prestigious for awarding classic and vintage vehicles.
A question arose about how such a modern vehicle could be accepted at this competition, and the English magazine Autocar anticipated the answer. The Destrier draws inspiration from the iconic Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, produced in 1936, which combined race car architecture with historically beautiful bodywork.
This new model incorporates the advanced carbon fiber composite monocoque used in the single unit of the 2021 Bugatti La Voiture Noire, receiving an aesthetic modernization. It uses the same eight-cylinder W16 engine, with four turbochargers, generating 1,600 hp and 163 kgfm. This engine is capable of reaching 100 km/h in about 2.4 seconds, a remarkable feat for an internal combustion engine, even after five years of development.
Although the French manufacturer has not yet disclosed all technical details, including power, torque, and the exact acceleration time of the new model, it is expected to be even lighter. The Destrier is the shortest car ever manufactured by the French brand, measuring only one meter, and its Design Director, Frank Heil, stated that the project led it to the most extreme proportions ever created, prioritizing 'pure sculpture' over the relentless pursuit of ground effect (aerodynamic suction).
The estimated cost of the Destrier, which will remain confidential, is expected to exceed US$ 20 million (equivalent to more than R$ 100 million). Initially, it will only be permitted to drive on competition tracks or on the lawns of elegance contests. However, the British company Lanzante recently adapted the single unit from five years ago for public road use, and this possibility would be replicated if the future owner desires. The name Destrier, in French, means a large, young, strong, and extremely fast horse.
On another front, Chinese brands are showing great interest in the Brazilian market. Icaur, which belongs to the Chery conglomerate, will operate independently of the Caoa Chery group in Brazil, with a debut expected in the first quarter of next year. All its models will be SUVs and aim for the higher price segments, adopting a design reminiscent of Land Rover's straight lines, but with a modern and attractive touch.
Icaur's initial strategy involves importation, followed by possible local production on a schedule to be defined. It has not yet been determined whether a completely new factory will be built or if negotiations will take place with existing facilities. Currently, there are three idle manufacturing units: Toyota in Indaiatuba (SP), Caoa Chery in Jacareí (SP), and Land Rover in Itatiaia (RJ).
The entry-level SUV, V23, is a conventional electric model (comparable in size to the Renegade), offering 136 hp, rear-wheel drive, prominent wheel arches, and an external compartment in the trunk lid (with side opening) intended to store charging cables or trail equipment. The rear pillars of this model are not glazed.
The intermediate models, V25 and V27, are extended-range electric (EREV), mitigating concerns about battery recharging during long trips. The Chinese competitor Leapmotor already offers this technology in the market (C10 SUV). The Icaur V27 should be the first to reach the market with a 1.5 turbo internal combustion engine of 154 hp, whose sole function is to power a generator, while the electric motors are responsible for moving the wheels. The most powerful version of the V27 reaches 455 hp, with 4x4 traction and a range of up to 1,200 km, using the optimistic Chinese measurement standard. In contrast, under the Brazilian Inmetro cycle, certifications better reflect real use; as a reference, the BMW iX3, with 459 hp, scheduled for launch the following week and considered the longest-range electric vehicle, presents an average travel distance of 570 km in the official table.
Finally, the V29, the top-of-the-line model, which is over five meters long and also EREV, has not yet had its details announced.