Although it may now seem that dynamometers are common, they are a serious and huge device. Bugatti is nothing more than the one he hires to test his hypercar.
Designed specifically for high-speed applications, the Bugatti Dino is capable of testing speeds of 298 mph (480 km / h). Although it has a huge top speed, it is slightly higher than Chiron’s limited 273 mph (440 km / h) speed. Even at low speeds, though, the forces are huge.
At 261 mph (420 km / h), Chiron’s tires rotate at speeds of up to 50 times per second, which can apply about 4,000G of power to them. At this speed, the air valve weighs 121 pounds (55 kg), the Bugatti claims.
Read more: Seeing a Bugatti Chiran in a dinosaur is quite a sight to behold
Naturally, it is not just gravity that is applying a lot of force to the vein; Chiron is, too. To ensure that it is always securely attached to the dinosaur, the car must be kept underbody with 20 high-strength screws attached to a specially designed adapter plate on the monocoque. Each plate is then anchored to the floor of the hall by tying strong crossings with the others. The chains must be able to withstand up to 24 tons of power to keep the car in constant contact with the dinosaur.
Unlike other four-wheel dinosaurs where each axle has its own roller, the Bugatti dinosaur has only one, where four wheels send their power. This, the company says, reduces wheel slip, flex and performance.
“In an all-wheel single-roller dynamometer, all components can be tested impartially and intelligibly under real driving conditions,” said Michael Gerick, developer of the Bugatti engine. “The level of driving resistance that is identical to the road is simulated.”
Not only is this important for accurate reading, it enables the machine to handle the huge power of Bugatti Chiran’s 8.0-liter W16 engine. With less slip and damage, the tires are less heated, allowing higher speed testing.
This means, though, that the roller is quite heavy, the scale tipping 3.5 tons and it has a rolling mass of about 1,587 pounds (720 kg). It also has a maximum braking power of 1,609 hp (1,200 kW / 1,631 PS).
A huge fan in the Bugatti testing hall can ventilate 10,594,400 cubic feet (300,000 cubic meters) per hour to mimic realistic airflow on vehicles and provide the engine and cooling system with the required airflow.
“This means we can guarantee free and, above all, safe running, even at full load and maximum speed,” Gerick said. “We can reproduce the tests at any time of the year and whatever the weather. It helps us in our constant search for technical perfection. “
Finally, the car needs to be tested and determined that it actually delivers its claimed 1,596 hp (1,190 kW / 1,618 PS) and 1,180 lb-ft (1,600 Nm) torque.