Koenigsegg Jesko Shatters Lap Record at Laguna Seca: Witness the Spectacular Run
At the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, Koenigsegg unveiled the Jesko, the successor to the renowned Agera. With a focus on achieving the highest top speed of any production car, the Jesko has also demonstrated its prowess on the track by setting a record-breaking lap time around Laguna Seca. This achievement follows in the footsteps of the record-breaking Agera RS, showcasing Koenigsegg’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation in the automotive world.
Track-Oriented Design and Performance
The Jesko Attack variant, specifically designed for track performance, recently set the production car lap record at Laguna Seca with a Racelogic-verified time of 1:24.86. Surpassing the Czinger 21C by six tenths of a second, the Jesko has cemented its position as the quickest production car around the 2.2-mile circuit. What is truly remarkable about this feat is that neither the driver, Markus Lundh, nor the car had previously tackled the challenging Laguna Seca circuit before the record-breaking run.
The Pursuit of Speed: The Absolut Variant
While the Jesko Attack focuses on track performance, Koenigsegg is also diligently working on the development of the low-drag Absolut variant, which aims to achieve unparalleled top speed capabilities. Although official figures have not been released, Koenigsegg has disclosed a target speed of 310mph for the Absolut, which would make it the fastest production car in the world. Christian von Koenigsegg, the company’s founder and CEO, expressed that the name “Absolut” signifies the ultimate speed achievement for the brand.
Power and Performance
The Jesko is powered by a redesigned 5.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine, capable of producing up to 1600bhp and 1106lb ft of torque when running on E85 race fuel. The use of lightweight components, including the world’s lightest crankshaft milled from a single solid steel billet, allows the engine to reach an impressive 8500rpm. With a focus on performance and precision, the Jesko’s powertrain delivers exhilarating acceleration and responsiveness on the track.
Cutting-Edge Transmission Technology
A highlight feature of the Jesko is its new nine-speed Light Speed Transmission (LST), which enables lightning-fast gear changes due to the simultaneous opening and closing of clutches. The Ultimate Power On Demand (UPOD) feature allows the gearbox to seamlessly shift to the most effective gear, enhancing acceleration and deceleration. Markus Lundh, the Jesko prototype driver, praised the transmission’s responsiveness and precision, emphasizing its contribution to the car’s dynamic performance.
Enhanced Design and Practicality
As an evolution of the Agera, the Jesko features tweaks to the carbon tub to improve usability and comfort. With increased dimensions for more legroom, headroom, and visibility, the Jesko offers a balance of performance and practicality. The incorporation of rear-wheel steering enhances maneuverability at low speeds and agility at higher speeds, providing a dynamic driving experience for enthusiasts.
Innovative Interior Features
Inside the Jesko, a blend of luxurious materials such as leather, Alcantara, carbon fibre, aluminium, and glass create a sophisticated and driver-focused environment. The new ‘SmartWheel’ integrates two small touchscreens in the steering wheel, allowing the driver to control various vehicle functions with ease. Miniaturized hydraulics automate hinges throughout the car, enhancing convenience and efficiency in everyday use.
Aerodynamic Excellence and Performance
The Jesko boasts over 1000kg of downforce, thanks to its active rear wing and front splitter with active underbody aero inlets. Lightweight centre-locking forged aluminium wheels come standard, with the option for centre-locking carbon fibre wheels. The low-drag Absolut variant features an extended rear end, rear-wheel aero covers, and aerodynamic enhancements to achieve a remarkable drag coefficient of 0.278, surpassing industry benchmarks for aerodynamic efficiency.
The Road to Speed: The Absolut Variant
In addition to its aerodynamic refinements, the Absolut variant of the Jesko omits the large rear wing in favor of ‘vertical stabilisers’ inspired by the F-15 fighter jet. These stabilisers enhance high-speed stability and reduce turbulence, contributing to the car’s exceptional aerodynamic performance. With a target speed of 310mph, the Absolut aims to surpass existing speed records and establish itself as the fastest Koenigsegg production car to date.
Limited Production and Exclusivity
Priced from approximately £2.3m, the Jesko will be limited to just 125 units, emphasizing its exclusivity and desirability among automotive enthusiasts and collectors. Each Jesko represents a culmination of Koenigsegg’s engineering prowess and dedication to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation in the hypercar segment.
The Koenigsegg Jesko: A Testament to Innovation and Performance
The Koenigsegg Jesko stands as a testament to the brand’s relentless pursuit of innovation, performance, and speed in the automotive industry. With record-breaking lap times, cutting-edge technology, and uncompromising design, the Jesko embodies the pinnacle of hypercar excellence. As Koenigsegg continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in automotive engineering, the Jesko represents a bold statement of the brand’s commitment to redefining the limits of speed and performance on both the track and the road.
