This is the first time a street-legal production hypercar has broken the 300 mph barrier, according to Bugatti. The car reached exactly 304.773 mph at a VW Group test track.
The 8.0-liter, quad-turbo W16 engine — nicknamed "Thor" — is the same powerplant that cranks out 1,500 horsepower in the Chiron that the Super Sport 300+ is based on.
The Super Sport 300+'s W16 has been upgraded to generate 1,600 horsepower.
The production car was presented as part of Bugatti's founding 110 years ago in Molsheim, France. The brand is now owned by the VW Group.
next slide will load in 15 secondsSkip AdSkip AdThe Chiron Super Sport+ shares the same design as the modified, record-breaking Chrion (developed with race-car manufacturer Dallara). But top speed is limited to 273.4 mph — Bugatti said this was to preserve the car's tires.
The key to breaking the 300mph mark was eliminating as much aerodynamic drag as possible. While the Chiron was already staggeringly fast, the Super Sport + has been modified to roar along at speeds above 261 mph, the Chiron's electronically-limited max.
The Super Sport+ has a longtail, a feature that reduces aerodynamic stall and maintains downforce on the car's rear wheels, keeping it stuck to the pavement. But not so stuck that it can't pour on the speed.
Air curtains and air outlet at the Super Sport+'s front end reduce detrimental air pressure and reduce drag.
The rear diffuser provides enough downforce for the Super Sport+'s retractable rear wing to remain stowed at top speed. Bugatti said this further reduces drag. Wheels are made from lightweight magnesium.
next slide will load in 15 secondsSkip AdSkip AdThe chassis is made of jet-black carbon fiber, adorned with "Jet Orange" racing stripes. The Bugatti badge is crafted in a combination of silver and black enamel.
The car has a net unit price of $3.5 million euros, about $3.87 million. Bugatti is building only 30 examples, and the car will start delivering mid-2021.