If you knew you had an ace in the hole, how long could you keep from bluffing? Everyone knows Bugatti builds fast cars. If a challenger appears, they simply add more power or build a new model. They represent the financial and engineering expertise of VW, which is comprised of Porsche, Audi, Lamborghini, etc.
Sitting across the table in this high-stakes game is Christian von Koenigsegg. His Swedish company has more automotive patents and innovation that comes from being an outside observer in the early days of the supercar scene. It has allowed him and his team to build wild cars like the Agera and Regera, that force major automakers back to the drawing board.
Two weeks ago, Bugatti announced a new record time in the 0-400 kph-0 test. The brutal scenario pushes the engine, driver, and brakes to their limits. The Chiron was able to reach 249 mph and back to zero in only 41.96 seconds. Performance of this level was only capable by race cars until recently.
But instead of shaming everyone else into submission, Koenigsegg unleashed the One:1 upgrade on the latest Agera RS. The most potent Agera to date, it produces one megawatt of power. With 1,360 horsepower and 1,011 lb-ft of torque, their blog says the Agera RS went 0-249mph-0 in only 36.44 seconds. Shaving 5.5 seconds off a world record is no easy task, so it will be interesting to see how the competition responds.
