Introduction:
The race for the fastest hypercars is not only about top speed but also about acceleration and braking capabilities. Achieving the 0-400 km/h (249 mph) and back to a standstill benchmark has become a fierce competition among automakers. This test not only assesses engine power and braking grip but also pushes traction control, ABS, active aerodynamics, and suspension systems to their limits. In 2017, Bugatti set a record of 42 seconds for the 0-400-0 sprint with the Chiron. However, in 2023, both the Rimac Nevera and the Koenigsegg Regera have shattered that record.
The Regera, a luxury hybrid "megacar" with 1,800 horsepower and a unique single-speed direct-drive transmission, held the record in 2019 at 31.49 seconds. However, in May of this year, the Rimac Nevera, an all-electric hypercar with 1,914 horsepower, broke 23 records, including the 0-400-0 benchmark, completing it in 31.85 seconds.
Regera's Comeback:
The Rimac Nevera's impressive performance prompted Christian Von Koenigsegg, the founder of Koenigsegg Automotive, to take up the challenge again. With a four-year-old Regera equipped with the latest Michelin Cup2R tires and on an improved surface, the test driver unleashed the Regera's power. The Regera accelerated from 0 to 400 km/h in just 20.68 seconds, surpassing the Nevera by 0.64 seconds. It then came to a complete stop in an astonishing 8.13 seconds, resulting in a verified 0-400-0 time of 28.81 seconds according to Racelogic.
Combustion vs. Electric Powertrains:
While the Regera might struggle to beat the Rimac Nevera in a 0-400-0 duel due to the early acceleration advantage of all-electric powertrains, the Regera's combination of a twin-turbo V8 combustion engine and electric power delivers impressive performance. The Regera utilizes around 700 electric horsepower to launch off the line and combines it with an 1,100-horsepower twin-turbo V8 directly connected to the rear wheels. The Regera's design is specifically engineered for extreme challenges like the 0-400-0 test.
Future Prospects:
Christian von Koenigsegg expressed his pride in the Regera's achievement, highlighting its timeless design and groundbreaking engineering. As Koenigsegg delivers the Jesko, a model expected to be even faster than the Regera, the company anticipates setting new records. The Jesko features a 1,600-horsepower combustion powertrain with innovative technologies. While the Jesko hasn't yet attempted record-breaking feats, it holds the promise of being Koenigsegg's fastest creation.
Conclusion:
The Koenigsegg Regera reclaimed the 0-400-0 record from the Rimac Nevera, showcasing its exceptional acceleration and braking capabilities. With a powerful hybrid powertrain and innovative engineering, the Regera achieved the feat in an impressive 28.81 seconds. As Koenigsegg prepares to unveil the Jesko, anticipation grows for the next level of performance from the Swedish automaker. The race for hypercar supremacy continues, pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible in automotive engineering.