9:09 AM
Bugatti should have known better than to let loose a supercar sedan concept without a concrete plan as to its production. Ever since the Bugatti Galibier Concept was unveiled in 2010, auto journalists the world over have been speculating on the vehicle’s production form and quite possibly rushing the French car manufacturer into releasing details a little ahead than necessary. Then again, who are we kidding? The more publicity, the better, right? So let’s give them some more.
Coming out of a rumor that the Galibier is dealing with a little setback in its release date of Fall 2012 because of the vehicle not being "outrageous enough," Bugatti CEO, Wolfgang Durheimer, has now confirmed that the production Galibier is "in its second half of the design phase," but will be significantly altered from the concept car originally displayed.
"I will suggest we continue development, but there will be some remarkable changes from the original concept," said Durheimer. "The design will be different, especially from the B-pillar back, the ingress and regress to the rear seats will be improved, as will the legroom and ergonomics, the car will be a little longer, and the power of the engine will be at least four figures."
The decision to change up the car’s design comes from customer clinic held by the company and approved by Durheimer. “Half of Veyron owners have been in the car already,” he said. “You will still recognize the design from the concept, but now this is a design I can be 100% behind.” The new design will combine elements from the Veyron and the classic Atlantic coupe.
The production Bugatti Galibier - name still not confirmed - will be unveiled by 2013 and will be priced at 1.5 million Euros, or about $2.3 million at the current rates.
