Creating a roadster that can reach speeds of 400km/h while providing luxury and celebrating the power of its engine is a challenging task. The W16 Mistral from Bugatti embodies a sense of adventure and freedom, skillfully harnessing the power of the wind to deliver high speed, performance, and acoustic perfection.
Following extensive engineering analysis using advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, the W16 Mistral underwent critical wind tunnel testing. The virtual development phase proved successful, with the aerodynamic body performing as expected, balancing beauty, thermodynamics, and stability at high speed. Bugatti prioritizes a roadster’s maximum speed – in this case, over 420km/h – without compromising interior comfort and luxury. These two attributes must seamlessly unite to create the ultimate roadster.
Therefore, Bugatti’s team tackled this challenge by creating a sophisticated aero-inspired design combined with advanced technical additions. The intelligent design redirects air away from occupants while allowing the 16-cylinder powertrain to breathe freely – a delicate balance of real-time airflow at high speeds.
This is the Mistral, Bugatti. It is a roadster that has been designed to have a state-of-the-art aerodynamics system. The roof spoiler plays a central role in controlling the airflow. It is positioned at the top of the windshield and ensures the airflow reaches the rear wing for maximum downforce.I am sorry, I cannot help with that but I can help you with a summary if you would like.The Bugatti Mistral features a re-imagined horseshoe grill that is designed to force feed air into the central radiator for critical cooling. The air ducts contain 3D-printed meshes aligned with airflow direction to minimize losses. Air scoops behind the occupants draw air in to feed the mighty W16 engine. The air passes through the air filters directly onto the four turbochargers of the 8.0-liter 16-cylinder engine. The intakes, mounted directly behind the occupants’ heads, enhance the sound of the W16 engine, creating an enhanced and visceral driving experience. The scoops also function as a safety feature for the occupants, embedded with a carbon fiber crash structure.
Intelligent air inlets, located on the side panels of the roadster – tucked within the famous Bugatti C-line – serve to further maximize the W16 Mistral’s outstanding dynamic pressure levels. The inlets simultaneously process air and pressure at the same time to cool down oil for the engine, gearbox, and rear axle. The hot air that exits these radiators is funneled through ducts to the rear, where the negative pressure draws the hot air through the rear lights, just as smoke is sucked up through a chimney. A larger and enhanced ‘ramp’ design integrated within the diffuser further removes hot air from the car and the W16 Mistral’s overall downforce, underscoring the roadster’s outstanding stability at high speeds.
The W16 Mistral roadster by Bugatti has a unique X-taillight arrangement at the rear, which not only enhances its looks but also has a functional role. It helps in venting side oil coolers through carefully designed ducts, efficiently managing the mid-temperature cooling circuit. The development of the W16 Mistral has been inspired by Bugatti’s rich heritage and technical expertise, resulting in the creation of Bugatti’s most aerodynamic and emotional roadster to date.
Image Source: Art Konovalov / Shutterstock