Chiron

Make
Bugatti
Segment
Coupe

It feels like an eternity since Shelby Super Cars North America, makers of the SSC Ultimate Aero, released images of a new car, the Tuatara. In fact, it was way back in 2012 when the Tuatara was first revealed in concept form, so you can be forgiven for forgetting about it. You may remember the old SCC Ultimate Aero, which briefly knocked off the Bugatti Veyron as the fastest car in the world before Bugatti struck back with the Super Sport.

SSC recently reemerged from its slumber back in 2018, showing off the monstrous 5.9-liter twin-turbo V8 that will power the new Tuatara. The bespoke engine will develop a spine-crushing 1,350 horsepower on 91-octane fuel or 1,750 hp with E85.

SSC's founder Jerod Shelby is confident his car will be the first to hit the 300 mph mark thanks to its 0.279 drag coefficient, the lowest of any hypercar to date. With such insane power driving only 2,750 pounds of weight, 300 mph doesn't seem completely outside the realms of possibility. The Bugatti Chiron and Koenigsegg Agera may want to start looking over their shoulders for this American monster. SSC also notes the Tuatara won't be a one trick pony, it will be excellent around a race track.

A Track Mode can be engaged via the car's central screen, lowering the suspension and prompting the active wing to create more downforce. SSC says the seven-speed transmission can rip off sub-100 millisecond shifts, which should have even the most adamant manual enthusiasts singing its praises.

Manufacturing of the Tuatara is nearing completion and the first example is set to reach customer hands in the third quarter of 2019. Additional deliveries will soon follow and SSC will likely make a big announcement when the first car is delivered. After the cars reach customers, it shouldn't be too long before SSC goes after the top speed record once again.