Continental develops custom brake control system for Bugatti Bolide hypercar

Continental has introduced an electronic brake control system specifically for the Bugatti Bolide, a hypercar designed exclusively for racetrack use. The system, based on Continental Engineering Services' (CES) "Motorsports ABS Kit," incorporates anti-lock braking (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control system (TCS) functionalities.

This advanced brake control solution aims to make the 1,600-horsepower vehicle manageable for both professional drivers and enthusiasts. The Bolide, initially conceived as a concept model derived from the Bugatti Chiron, is now being produced in a limited run of 40 units, with initial deliveries set to begin before the year ends.

Continental Engineering Services, the development branch of Continental, has been a long-standing partner for Bugatti, particularly in creating innovations for models such as the Bugatti Veyron and Chiron. The latest collaboration with Bugatti includes custom hardware and software components developed to optimize the Bolide’s driving dynamics, a significant task given the exclusive track-only focus of the hypercar. 

Christian Willmann, Bugatti’s chief engineer for the Bolide, noted the unique integration of ESC with carbon-carbon brakes. He highlighted that Continental’s motorsport brake control system meets performance, stability, and safety requirements specifically designed for the Bolide. Volker van Lier, head of the Chassis & Brake Systems business unit at CES, remarked on the challenge of designing brake technology suitable not only for expert drivers but also for those with less racing experience.

Continental Engineering Services’ expertise in motorsports contributed to the project, applying advanced brake control technologies similar to those in previous Bugatti hypercars, but with enhancements tailored for the Bolide. The system manages the vehicle’s 1,600-horsepower output and ensures precise acceleration and braking, which is crucial for maintaining safe steering and handling. The traction control system distributes power for optimal propulsion, the ABS enhances braking under various conditions, and ESC provides stability during complex driving maneuvers.

The brake control system offers five driving modes for ABS, stability, and traction control, which can be selected directly from the steering wheel. These modes range from full racing configurations to options with progressively increased electronic assistance, allowing drivers to adjust settings based on track conditions, weather, and tire status. The system also adapts to changes in brake balance between the front and rear axles, ensuring optimal braking performance, regardless of tire temperature or other factors on the track.

The Bugatti Bolide is a high-performance hypercar engineered exclusively for track use, equipped with a quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16 engine that produces an impressive 1,600 horsepower when using 98-octane fuel. This immense power output allows the Bolide to reach speeds well over 300 mph under optimal conditions, with a weight-to-power ratio of only 0.67 kg per horsepower due to its lightweight construction.

The Bolide’s structure employs a carbon fiber monocoque, keeping its total weight down to approximately 1,240 kg. The car’s aerodynamics are enhanced by an active rear wing and prominent front and rear diffusers, maximizing downforce and stability at high speeds. With a ground clearance adjustable to track conditions, the Bolide maintains optimal balance and control even during intense racing scenarios.

Advanced braking is achieved through carbon-carbon brakes, which provide exceptional heat resistance and consistent performance at extreme temperatures. The Bolide also features Continental’s specialized Motorsports ABS, ESC, and TCS systems, allowing precise control over acceleration, braking, and stability. Fitted with racing-grade Michelin tires and five adaptable driving modes, the Bugatti Bolide combines power, lightweight engineering, and aerodynamic design to deliver a singular racing experience for hypercar enthusiasts.