The Bugatti Veyron is one of the most iconic hypercars in history, but also one of the most expensive to maintain. Among the most exorbitant costs were its special tires, the replacement of which could bankrupt more than one millionaire. However, the Molsheim-based firm has found a solution that promises to ease the financial burden on its fortunate owners.
During Monterey Car Week, Bugatti unveiled new official wheels for the Veyron that allow the use of conventional tires, which are much cheaper and easier to replace. This initiative, developed by the restoration and certification division La Maison Pur Sang, marks a turning point in the maintenance of this automotive icon.
The PAX tire problem
The Veyron, launched in 2005, was the first production car to exceed 1.000 hp and reach 400 km/h. To withstand these extreme speeds, Michelin designed special tires with the PAX system, which were bonded to the rim with an adhesive and included a steel cable to prevent the tire from completely deflating. This technology was so expensive that a set of tires cost between €30.000 and €36.000 , according to the source. Furthermore, every three tire changes required replacing the rims as well, which cost three times as much as the tires, raising the total bill to over $150.000 (approximately €128.500).
The solution: wheels compatible with the Chiron
To put an end to this absurdity, Bugatti has designed new 20-inch wheels for the front axle and 21-inch wheels for the rear, reinterpreting the classic Machiavelli design of the Veyron. Importantly, these wheels are compatible with the tire sizes of the Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport : 285/30 ZR20 at the front and 355/25 ZR21 at the rear. This allows owners to fit Michelin Pilot Sport 4S or Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, a complete set of which costs between €3.000 and €3.500. That's a saving of approximately ten times compared to the PAX , and without needing to change the wheels every few tire replacements.
A considerable saving and an aesthetic upgrade
The new configuration not only reduces maintenance costs but also enhances the vehicle's aesthetics. The wheels maintain the essence of the original design, but with a more modern and elegant touch. Furthermore, since they are the same size as those used on the Chiron, they benefit from technological advancements in high-performance tires, guaranteeing safe handling even at very high speeds. However, there is a small drawback: the price of the new wheels has not been revealed , and all indications suggest it won't be exactly cheap. Even so, it's a one-time expense that is more than offset by the subsequent savings.
Presentation in Monterey and the exclusive La Maison Pur Sang 20 Years
The new wheels were unveiled to the public at Monterey Car Week, mounted on the spectacular Bugatti La Maison Pur Sang Veyron 20 Years, a fully restored Veyron that combines Rembrandt Rouge paint with the Chiron's Petrol Blue and a Magnolia leather interior. This unique example also features a redesigned three-dimensional air intake grille and a Côte de Genève finish on the center console. With this initiative, Bugatti demonstrates its continued commitment to its most loyal customers, offering practical solutions for enjoying their cars without breaking the bank on every service.
In short, the arrival of these wheels is a relief for Veyron owners, who will no longer have to spend astronomical sums to change their tires. The French brand has managed to combine tradition and modernity, maintaining the essence of the hypercar while adapting it to current times. This decision will undoubtedly be welcomed by collectors and enthusiasts of the brand.
