Hidden Bugatti Prototype Featured Bug-Like Eyes and 18 Cylinders | Carscoops

      The production version of the Veyron differs significantly from this concept, yet it still showcases some recognizable Bugatti elements.

      Bugatti's striking Veyron concept remained unseen by the public for over twenty years.

      Created by Walter de Silva, the concept is currently exhibited at the Autostadt museum.

      Similar to the 18/3 Chiron, this Bugatti prototype was designed around a 6.3-liter W18 engine.

      The Bugatti Veyron represented a pivotal moment in the automotive industry. Following the VW Group's acquisition of the Bugatti brand, the goal was to create what would become one of the most extraordinary supercars and the fastest production car ever made. Throughout this journey, Bugatti explored various design options for this vehicle.

      In the years prior to the Veyron's debut, Bugatti revealed several captivating concept cars, such as the 18/3 Chiron and the 18/4 Veyron. While some were showcased to the public, a lesser-known predecessor to the Veyron was kept under wraps for years. Designed by Walter de Silva, this remarkable concept has recently been displayed at Germany’s Autostadt museum, positioned near the VW factory.

      A Hidden Chapter in Bugatti’s History

      Although this early Veyron concept was conceived in 1999, it remained largely undisclosed for nearly ten years. Its existence was first uncovered in 2009 by the Italian magazine Quattroruote, which published a series of photographs. Unlike the other concepts that hinted at the Veyron, this particular one never appeared at auto shows and stayed relatively unknown outside of the company.

      Even though Bugatti chose not to utilize this concept as the foundation for the Veyron, there is still a significant presence of Bugatti design in de Silva’s work. It features an oval interpretation of the familiar horseshoe grille and retains the basic signature C-line seen in the Veyron, Chiron, and Tourbillon. Dressed in a vibrant shade of blue, it truly highlights the ‘Bug’ in Bugatti.

      Bugatti Styling With a Quirky Twist

      Whether the concept's resemblance to an unusual bug is seen as positive or not is subjective. When compared to the final production Veyron, the round headlights and taillights of this concept appear somewhat simplistic. Some aspects of the rear design did influence the Veyron, including the engine cover and the prominent central tailpipe.

      Like the 18/3 Chiron concept presented in 1999, this vehicle was built around a 6.3-liter W18 engine consisting of three banks of six cylinders. It was an ambitious powertrain, although it was not carried over to the production model, which utilized a quad-turbocharged W16 engine producing between 1,001 PS and 1,200 PS (987 to 1,183 horsepower), depending on the variant.

      There has been no information provided regarding the duration of this special Bugatti concept's display in Germany, but if you are local or planning to visit the area, it is certainly worth a look.