Volkswagen Group, through its Porsche brand, has sold its stake in Bugatti to Croatia's Rimac, ending a 26-year partnership. Rimac now holds 100% control of the French hypercar marque, paving the way for an all-electric future.
After more than a quarter-century of partnership, Bugatti has officially parted ways with the Volkswagen Group. According to a report by CarBuzz, Porsche sold its stake in Bugatti to Croatian EV hypercar specialist Rimac, making Rimac the sole owner of the iconic French brand.
How the Deal Unfolded
Porsche previously held a 45% stake in Bugatti through the Bugatti-Rimac joint venture, with Rimac owning 55%. With this transaction, Rimac acquired the remaining shares, ending Volkswagen’s involvement entirely.
What Does This Mean for Bugatti’s Future?
With full control, Bugatti will pivot toward fully electric hypercars, leveraging Rimac’s expertise in high-performance EVs, as demonstrated by the Rimac Nevera. However, combustion-engine models like the Chiron are expected to continue for a limited time.
Why Did Volkswagen Sell Bugatti?
The move aligns with Volkswagen’s strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on mass-market electric vehicles, rather than low-volume luxury brands. Bugatti had also been incurring losses in recent years, making the sale a logical decision.
What Are Rimac’s Plans for Bugatti?
Rimac is expected to continue limited production of Bugatti’s combustion models, such as the Chiron, while developing a fully electric successor. The brand may also expand into new markets, particularly in Asia and the Middle East.
When Will New Bugattis Arrive in Saudi Arabia and the UAE?
Rimac has not announced a specific timeline for Gulf deliveries. However, Bugatti will likely remain available through existing dealers, with electric models expected within 3–5 years. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are among the largest hypercar markets, so they will be priorities.
Key Facts
- Partnership duration: 26 years
- Stake sold: 45% from Porsche
- New owner: Rimac (full control)
- Future direction: All-electric hypercars
- Expected price: Not announced
FAQ
Why did Volkswagen sell Bugatti?
Volkswagen sold Bugatti to focus on mass-market EVs and reduce financial losses from the low-volume luxury brand.
Will Bugatti stop making combustion-engine cars?
Not immediately. Rimac is expected to continue producing models like the Chiron with its W16 engine for a while, but the long-term focus is on fully electric hypercars.
When will the new Bugatti be available in Saudi Arabia?
No date has been set, but electric models are expected within 3–5 years. Saudi Arabia is a key market, so it will be a priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Volkswagen sell Bugatti?
Volkswagen sold Bugatti to focus on mass-market EVs and reduce financial losses from the low-volume luxury brand.
Will Bugatti stop making combustion-engine cars?
Not immediately. Rimac is expected to continue producing models like the Chiron with its W16 engine for a while, but the long-term focus is on fully electric hypercars.
When will the new Bugatti be available in Saudi Arabia?
No date has been set, but electric models are expected within 3–5 years. Saudi Arabia is a key market, so it will be a priority.
Sources
- CarBuzz — Bugatti And Volkswagen Are Parting Ways After 26 Years
