The new Koenigsegg CCGT1 Hypercar presents another method for manual gear shifting.

      Koenigsegg

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      You and I share quite a few similarities, whether we realize it or not. One commonality is that we will likely never get behind the wheel of a Koenigsegg. Of course, if you’re a wealthy entrepreneur who happens to own one, my argument doesn't apply to you, and I'm not addressing you. But for myself and nearly everyone else, we can only admire from a distance the creations of the Swedish manufacturer. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate Koenigsegg’s craftsmanship, and to illustrate this, I will spend the remainder of this blog praising the new CCGT1 hypercar and the various ways you can operate it.

      This car pays tribute to a unique Le Mans project from 2007. Christian von Koenigsegg created a car (singular) nearly two decades ago to compete in the 24-hour endurance race, but some important regulations changed right after its completion. CVK chose not to let it go to waste, as the vehicle you see here honors the original CCGT, which has been updated and is now set for competitive use in the GT1 historic class.

      The star of the day, the new CCGT1, enhances the concept with a new transmission technology known as Koenigsegg Sequential Shift. This system features a clutch pedal for drivers to use solely during take-off, while shifts are done without a clutch and without lifting off the throttle, thanks to ignition cuts. As expected from a race car, the shifter is tall and positioned just inches from the steering wheel.

      Koenigsegg

      I can only imagine the thrill of rapidly shifting through the nine (!!!) gears as the twin-turbo V8 roars and hums behind you. This engine produces 1,280 horsepower on standard fuel or 1,600 hp on E85, and it can utilize any combination of the two fuels as well.

      Now, if you prefer a conventional H-pattern gearbox, you’re in luck, as Koenigsegg also provides the CCGT1 with its own six-speed manual transmission. If you’ve been following Koenigsegg news, you might recall that it already produces a manual hypercar: the CC850, which honors the company’s first homologated production vehicle. This manual transmission is the same as the one found in that model.

      What’s particularly intriguing is how Koenigsegg’s Light Speed Transmission makes this all possible. Both the six-speed manual and nine-speed sequential are fundamentally LSTs. This piece of technology lacks a flywheel and uses seven wet multi-disc clutches, allowing it to skip gears as necessary. Therefore, both the manual and sequential modes can function as automatic transmissions when set to the appropriate mode. Understand?

      Koenigsegg

      “The CCGT1 possesses two distinct identities,” Christian von Koenigsegg stated. “On the road, it's a remarkable tourer that is both comfortable and highly capable. However, its roots are in endurance racing, and that’s where the CCGT1 reveals its true nature as a genuine tribute to the original CCGT—whether the roof panel is on or off!

      “The CCGT1 presents something enticing to the weekend racer who also desires a daily driver with significant performance capabilities on track. That’s what our optional track package provides. Prepare it for race day through your local Koenigsegg dealer, and the character transforms entirely—from an outstanding weekend touring car with respectable track credentials into a genuine circuit weapon.”

      Koenigsegg

      I haven’t even mentioned the car’s active aerodynamics, which features a wing that adjusts between low-drag and air brake configurations with a range of 30 degrees; the “Ghost Fibre” bodywork, which sparkles in sunlight with what Koenigsegg describes as “a crystal-white aramix/carbon matrix”; or the optional Track Package, which includes a carbon fiber roll cage, HANS-compatible seats, fire suppression, air jacks, modified suspension and braking setups, enhanced aerodynamics, and an alternate set of wheels with race tires.

      Once again, you and I are unlikely to ever drive the Koenigsegg CCGT1—especially if you’re not one of the 70 customers who have already purchased one. (I know I’m not.) But I appreciate that high-end, boutique hypercar manufacturers still value driving feel.

      At least a person can dream.

      Have a tip or question for the author? Reach out directly: caleb@thedrive.com