Bugatti's Owner: A History of Luxury and Performance
Bugatti, the renowned French hypercar manufacturer, has been a symbol of luxury and performance for over a century. But who owns this iconic brand, and what's their history with it?
The ownership of Bugatti has changed hands several times throughout its history. Here's a look at some of the key owners:
Early Days: Ettore Bugatti and His Family (1909-1947)
The company was founded by Ettore Bugatti, a visionary Italian engineer, in 1909. Ettore was passionate about creating beautiful and powerful automobiles, and his cars quickly gained a reputation for their artistry and performance.
After Ettore's death in 1947, his son Jean Bugatti took over the company. Unfortunately, Jean tragically died in a car accident in 1939, leaving the future of Bugatti uncertain.
Post-War Uncertainties: Various Ownership Changes (1947-1998)
The company struggled financially during the postwar period and was sold several times. From 1947 to 1963, it was owned by Pierre Marco, who continued to build and race Bugatti cars.
From 1963 to 1987, a series of different owners held the reins, including Hispano-Suiza, Aerospatiale, and SNECMA.
The Volkswagen Era: A Revival of Luxury and Performance (1998-Present)
In 1998, Volkswagen Group, the German automotive giant, purchased Bugatti and embarked on a new chapter for the brand. Under Volkswagen's leadership, Bugatti experienced a significant revival, creating some of the fastest and most luxurious cars ever built.
Here are some of the key highlights of the Volkswagen era:
- The Bugatti Veyron: Unveiled in 2005, the Veyron was a technological masterpiece that redefined the concept of a hypercar. It held the world speed record for a production car for several years.
- The Bugatti Chiron: The successor to the Veyron, the Chiron, debuted in 2016 and further pushed the boundaries of performance and luxury.
- The Bugatti Bolide: This track-focused concept car showcased the brand's cutting-edge engineering and design.
The Volkswagen Group, under the leadership of Dr. Herbert Diess, continues to invest heavily in Bugatti's future, ensuring its place as a global icon of automotive excellence.
What's Next for Bugatti?
The future of Bugatti under Volkswagen's ownership remains exciting. The company continues to explore new technologies and push the limits of performance and luxury. As Bugatti celebrates its 115th anniversary, it's clear that its legacy of craftsmanship and innovation remains as strong as ever.
