The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is a mid-engine sports car produced by Volkswagen AG subsidiary Bugatti Automobiles SAS introduced in 2005. It is the quickest accelerating and decelerating road-legal production car in the world, and it was the world’s fastest car until it was beaten by the SSC Ultimate Aero TT in 2007. Powered by a 1,001 PS (987 hp/736 kW) W16 engine,^[2] it is able to achieve an average top speed of 408.47 km/h (253.81 mph).

For speeds beyond 375 km/h, drivers need to activate the top speed key.

To create the optimum aerodynamics, the Bugatti engineers developed three configuration modes. In standard mode, used for speeds up to 220 km/h, the rear spoiler system is completely retracted. In handling mode, used at higher velocities, the vehicles nose is pulled down and the monumental rear spoiler deployed. This produces an additional 350 kg of downforce without compromising the Veyron’s exceptional turn dynamics. And then there is the top speed mode for velocities beyond 375 km/h, which is activated before the engine is started. At top speed mode the front diffuser flaps are shut to make the underbody absolutely level, and the spoiler is completely aligned with the chassis, forming a tearing edge – thus, the Veyron is perfectly adapted for top velocities. The downforce is reduced to minimize the strain on the tires, which is already considerable. The car is held down on the road by its own weight and the downforce. The Veyron starts immediately at top speed mode, allowing only for a limited turn of the steering wheel. As soon as the driver brakes, the Veyron automatically switches to handling mode. But those who dare to accelerate consistently on a long, straight road will experience the power of the fastest production vehicle of all times.

Beneath all the Hermes finery, there is some pretty fine engineering hardware in the shape of a 1,001 horsepower – 16-cylinder engine. On this car, the carbon-fiber panel between the engine and the passenger compartment is covered in leather. The Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes is available at the end of this year for $2.36M.

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