Hermes Joins with Bugatti to Create Le Plus Ultra-Luxurious Veyron

As a tribute to the celebrated 1924 Bugatti Type 35 -- undoubtedly the most famous Bugatti of all time, thanks to its many successes on the racetrack -- the new Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes features eight-spoked wheels in polished aluminum, central butterfly wheel locks branded with the letter H, and air vents around the rims reproducing the characteristic appearance of Hermes saddle-stitching. The horseshoe radiator grille -- and the lateral ventilation grilles flanking it -- are made from lightweight alloys with a design of interlocking H's evoking the Hermes "signature."

Animal-rights activists should turn their heads now: The inner surfaces of the Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes have been designed and sheathed in bull calfskin by the Hermes workshops in Paris. The care and attention to detail observe an extremely refined design that reflects the tradition of the very first Bugattis as well as the fundamental principles from the house of Hermes. The door handles echo the fluid forms of those on Hermes travel bags and luggage. The dashboard -- traditionally finished in brushed aluminum -- is clad entirely in bull calfskin. Both seats are covered in two-toned bull calfskin, and the panel separating the cockpit from the central rear engine - traditionally made of carbon fiber - is covered in the same fine leather. The leather-lined trunk holds a specially-fitted "Toile H" and leather case, hand-made by craftsmen from the Hermes workshops.

As if all that fabulous leather isn't enough to make your heart beat faster, this incredible sports coupe, is capable of reaching speeds above 250 mph, while combining of the very finest motor-racing technology with comfortable handling for every day driving. The 16-cylinder "W" configuration engine is fed by four turbochargers and features 64 valves, generating 1001 horsepower at 6000 rpm. The engine draws on its 8-liter displacement to deliver a maximum torque of 1250 Newton-meters between 2200 and 5500 rpm. With full-time all-wheel drive, the car's phenomenal power produces breathtaking dynamic handling, with acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in a mere 2.5 seconds. The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 benefits from aeronautical and aerospace technologies, making it the fastest production car ever made. The car also features a braking system designed to deliver unprecedented powers of deceleration, establishing a new industry benchmark. The carbon-fiber discs provide brake pressure of up to 180 bars, combined with eight-piston monobloc calipers and titanium pistons fitted with fine steel heads and ceramic heat protectors. Apply the brakes at speeds above 120 mph, and the rear wing acts as an airbrake, positioning itself at an angle of 113 degrees in less than 0.4 seconds, augmenting the Bugatti Veyron's already impressive stopping power. The airbrake increases negative lift at the rear of the car to 300 kg, enhancing the braking torque on the rear axle. Emergency braking can bring the sports car from approximately 250 mph to a complete halt in less than 10 seconds.

This fascinating car has pushed the limits of physical engineering to a completely new level for driver and passenger alike. But it has also adopted an approach high above any other sports cars: its features and finish are sure to impress the most demanding and wealthiest clientele. This exceptional model will be priced at 1.55 million Euros (approximately $245,000,000, not including tax), when it goes on sale at the end of 2008. Better call your stock broker now so you will have liquidated the necessary funds in time.

by Brandy Schaffels
AskPatty.com Editor

Photo credit: Nick Dimbleby