The Koenigsegg One:1 - Next Step in the Quest for Speed
The saga of the fastest production car is far from over, and it would seem that the next chapter is about to be written: Koenigsegg has unveiled the full details on its latest creation, the One:1. In theory, this supercar should hit a top speed of 450 km/h.
The One:1 is aptly named, boasting a power to weight ratio of 1:1. It weighs just 1360 kilograms, and its twin-turbo 5 liter V8 pumps out 1360 horsepower. The Hennessey Venom GT is also advertised with this power to weight ratio, however in this case, it is dry weight, without any oil or coolant. The Koenigsegg was weighed with all the fluids inside, and half a tank of fuel.
To generate so much power, the Swedish engineers had to push the boundaries of what was currently possible, and use the latest technologies. For example, the internal parts of the two variable-geometry turbos are built using a 3D printer. The titanium exhaust tip is also made using this technique, and it takes a whole 3 days to create.
While the shape is the same as the Agera, the One:1 uses a new technique for weaving the carbon fiber, similar to the one used in F1. This makes the new carbon tub chassis 40% lighter than the Agera. This car will also be the first Koenigsegg to use active aerodynamics. Hydraulics actuators are placed behind the front bumpers, and will actually bend the carbon fiber to direct airflow across the car. This is the first car to use this method.
At the rear, the massive rear wing will also be actuated hydraulically. During braking, instead of being used as an airbrake, the wing will generate even more downforce, to put more weight on the back. This will help brake achieve maximum efficiency.
The One:1 also pioneers a new GPS adjustment technology. After the official launch, Koenigsegg will send a car (with team of drivers and engineers) to various circuits on the globe, with one simple objective: beat the lap record. The car will be setup for various sections of the track, using suspension, throttle response, aerodynamics, brakes… This data will be entered into the onboard computer. Once it is on the track, the One:1 will find its exact position by GPS, recognize the next sector, and change various setups in real time.
The One:1 will be launched in Geneva on March 3rd, 2014. Only 6 cars will be produced (plus the development prototype), and they are already sold out.