The Enigma of the 19 Million Bugatti La Voiture Noire: Ownership Mystery, Unveiling, and Iconic Design
The journey of the most expensive hypercar, the 19 million Bugatti La Voiture Noire, has captivated the world of luxury automotive enthusiasts. This exclusive piece of art, which made its debut at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show, remains a mystery in terms of its ownership—spurring a lively debate amongst connoisseurs and fans alike.
Unveiling of the La Voiture Noire
Bugatti, the brand synonymous with luxury and excellence, unveiled the La Voiture Noire at the prestigious Geneva International Motor Show in 2019. The name 'La Voiture Noire' translates to 'The Black Car' in French, aptly describing the car's sleek, black-on-black design. This one-of-a-kind hypercar is powered by an exceptional 1480-horsepower 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16 engine, capable of reaching speeds up to 380 km/h in just 2.4 seconds from 0 to 60 km/h. The car has been hailed as a masterpiece of automotive engineering, commemorating Bugatti’s 110th birthday.
Ownership Mystery
The ownership of the La Voiture Noire is neither confirmed nor revealed by Bugatti, creating a cloud of mystery that has sparked intense speculation. Among the many suspects, one prominent figure is Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned Portuguese football star. Ronaldo has a penchant for luxury and has previously shown interest in high-profile cars, such as the Ferrari 250 GTO, which was sold for an astonishing $48.4 million. It is rumored that he purchased the La Voiture Noire in 2021, but this claim remains unverified. Another potential owner is Ferdinand Piech, the former Volkswagen Group CEO, known for his deep connection to the car industry and history.
Given the car’s exorbitant price and unique nature, it is more likely that it won’t be driven but rather preserved for its collectible value. Owned by someone with an enormous attachment to the Bugatti brand, this car is a testament to the brand's prestige and exclusivity.
Custom-Built Hypercar
The La Voiture Noire is more than just a race for speed and power; it is a celebration of art and engineering. Initially founded in Croatia, it is now associated with the new owner of the Bugatti brand, Rimac. Its unique design, crafted to perfection, is a true testament to the meticulous work of engineers and designers at Bugatti. The car is hand-built, making it one-of-a-kind and contributing to its allure.
Even before the Geneva Motor Show, the car had already found its buyer, selling for an astronomical €18.9 million, including local and luxury taxes. Though the buyer's name is not publicly disclosed, Bugatti suggests it is someone closely tied to the brand's identity. As of now, the car has never been seen in public, and its likely preservation for its intrinsic value rather than daily use.
Conclusion
The ownership mystery surrounding the 19 million Bugatti La Voiture Noire remains a topic of fascination. From the speculation about Cristiano Ronaldo to the unknown buyer, the car's beauty and exclusivity continue to inspire awe. The La Voiture Noire is not only a reflection of Bugatti's ingenuity but also a symbol of the enduring allure of luxury automotive art. Its unique design, powerful performance, and unparalleled value make it a standout in the world of high-end transportation.