Even average members of the driving public these days know about the Bugatti brand's hardcore supercars, the Veyron and Chiron, that push the limits of power, performance, and price tags in the modern era. But fewer people realize that Bugatti's history goes way back, over a full century, to 1909. And in the early years of the automobile, much like today, Bugatti was pushing the limits of power and performance, as well. And now, as part of an effort to memorialize Bugatti's early racing success, the French manufacturer has teamed up with The Little Car Company to build a miniature tribute called the Bugatti Baby II.
Tiny, But 100% Bugatti
The Bugatti Baby II will be a three-quarters-sized replica of the legendary Type 35, which is generally recognized as the most successful racecar of all time. The tiny version also hearkens back to an earlier child's toy that founder Ettore Bugatti and his son Jean, build back in 1926 as a present for Ettore's son, Roland, for his fourth birthday. This original "Baby Bugatti" was built as an official model in the lineup between 1927 and 1936, with around 500 known to have left the assembly line.
Bringing It Back
The original Baby Bugatti was much smaller than the modern version, which will be able to fit adults (albeit in cramped quarters). A planned run of 500 examples are on offer currently (first-come, first-served is apparently the plan, though knowing Bugatti, there's a good chance the rich and famous will get a bit of special treatment).
Fun For All Ages
The original Bugatti Baby was an electric car almost a century ago—as the EV format has improved in the interim, today's will be, as well. With a lithium-ion battery pack, regenerative braking, and even a limited-slip rear differential, the Baby II should be pretty fun. It will include three drive settings: a 1kW-limited "Novice Mode" allowing for speeds up to 12.4 miles per hour, "Expert Mode" with 4kW on tap and up to 27 miles per hour, and a "Speed Key" unlocking up to 10kW and no speed limit.
Source: Bugatti