Koenigsegg's latest 'megacar' to debut at Geneva Motor Show
As the 2016 Geneva Motor Show's hamster wheel begins to circulate quicker and quicker, a steady flow of fresh motors are being released to many a mouth-foaming journo. Tomorrow, one of those cars will be the production version of Koenigsegg's thoroughly impressive Regera — the replacement for the Agera.
While the car's beautifully rounded 1,500hp claim is ball-tearingly good, as is its 0–100kph time of 2.8 seconds (it gets to 200kph in 6.6 seconds, 300kph in a frank 10.9 seconds, and 400kph [!!!] in an estimated 20 seconds), many are making the biggest deal of the Regera's transmission set-up.
In short, it doesn't have one — instead making use of what the company call Koenigsegg Direct Drive.
“The patent-pending Koenigsegg Direct Drive system was the biggest challenge in the Regera development process, but it has also provided the biggest rewards. This is brand new technology that eliminates the weight, complexity and mechanical losses that come with a traditional gearbox. The end result is seamless, effortless driving that features blistering acceleration unlike any other car,” said the manufacturer in their Regera press release.
Photo / Koenigsegg
“Koenigsegg has developed a clutch-slip mechanism that uses the hydraulic coupling to convert torque at medium/high speeds during fast acceleration. This allows the combustion engine to gain revs and power, thereby giving the sensation of a traditional downshift with the associated aural enjoyment, even without the traditional gearbox.
“Shift paddles remain on either side of the steering wheel. The left paddle is used to enhance the regenerative braking effect in recharging the battery pack. The right paddle is used to activate the hydraulic coupling’s ‘downshift’ operation.”
Koenigsegg also make a big deal about the Regera's battery technology as well, with the car slated to be the first 800V production car in the world. The pack will provide the car with 525kW of discharge, and up to 200kW of recharge.
Despite its figures, the pack only weighs 90kg, helping the overall car achieve a total dry weight of 1470kg.
Koenigsegg say that deliveries of the new Regera will commence towards the end of 2016.
Along with the Regera, the Swedish marque's Geneva line-up will also include the Agera Final — a three-car limited edition farewell to the nameplate — and the Agera RS.