Non-Standard Conflict Resolution
Owners of exclusive cars usually expect a high level of service provided behind closed doors, away from the public. However, today these relationships are taking on a new dimension, as well illustrated by the story from Florida.
Alex Gonzalez, known online under the nickname @fxalexg, who is an influential figure in finance and Forex trading, recently challenged Bugatti regarding his damaged Chiron Pur Sport. In his public address, which resembled an ultimatum more than a request, he stated: “Bugatti, you have 24 hours to unblock this car, otherwise we will print all the parts on a 3D printer.”
Personal Reaction from the Chief
Most manufacturers would ignore such a post, but Bugatti acted differently. The company’s CEO Mate Rimac decided to respond personally by sending Gonzalez a direct message, which later became part of this story.
The threat was not empty. Gonzalez bought the heavily damaged Pur Sport at a Copart auction after he himself crashed it, with the aim of restoring the car. This was a difficult task not only because of the extent of the damage.
The front of the car has significant damage and is missing the hood. At least one airbag deployed. Furthermore, Bugatti had blocked the car to prevent unsafe restoration. In other words, the manufacturer refused to sell the parts necessary for repair.
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Counteroffer from the Chief
It was then that Rimac intervened. In a message that Gonzalez later partially published on Instagram, the Bugatti chief began with an unexpected introduction: “Hello, friend. This is the CEO of Bugatti.”
He explained why 3D printing is not a viable alternative: “You cannot 3D print parts for a Bugatti. Your gearbox and carbon monocoque are likely damaged – they cannot be printed. The same goes for headlights and body panels.”
These are obvious and weighty arguments from Rimac, emphasizing how cautious the Bugatti brand wants to be in such cases. Thousands of horsepower and a damaged chassis are a dangerous combination. However, Bugatti clearly wants to find a solution, not just stop Gonzalez’s attempts.
“We want to help you do this in the most cost-effective way,” Rimac wrote. “If the monocoque and gearbox do not need replacement, it will cost much less than everyone says.”
A Happy Ending?
While it’s unclear what exactly Rimac said next, as the published screenshot cuts off quite abruptly, the story seems to be moving towards a positive finale.
Gonzalez confirmed plans for a phone call with Rimac regarding this issue and that Bugatti officially unblocked the car. At least for now, if the car returns to the road, it will happen with the blessing (and appropriate safety) of Bugatti itself.
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This story demonstrates how the relationships between car manufacturers and customers are changing in the era of social media. Public appeals, especially from influential figures, can lead to unprecedented results, with even top-level executives intervening personally. At the same time, it highlights the importance of safety in restoring high-performance cars, where compromises can have serious consequences. Bugatti’s approach, combining a principled stance on safety with a willingness to find a constructive solution, could serve as an example for other manufacturers in similar situations.