Koenigsegg Automotive AB is a Swedish manufacturer of high-performance cars based initially in Olofström, later moving to Margretetorp, just outside Ängelholm. The Koenigsegg CCXR developes 1020 horsepower resulting in a top speed of almost 250 mph (400 kph). The CCXR is among the fastest production cars in the world. Koenigsegg manufactures exclusive super sportscars for a select elite of enthusiasts. Spaceage materials and uncompromizing quality both in finish and function make these cars among the very best in the automotive history. They reach higher top speeds and are more powerful than any other series-produced car today.
The CCX model currently in production succeeds the 806 hp CCR, which held the Guinness World Record for the most powerful streetcar. Both Koenigsegg models are built to excel on the road or racetrack, yet are still highly comfortable for long distance travelling. Koenigsegg's design seeks to give an interpretation of strength and flowing motion. The body of a Koenigsegg is formed for one ultimate purpose; speed. Its beauty is the beauty of speed itself. The surfaces are shaped to perfectly aerodynamic, an appearance that does not deceive. All aspects of this machine serve its one fundamental objective. Both the body and chassis of a Koenigsegg are made of extremely lightweight carbon fibre composite, reinforced with Kevlar and aluminium honeycomb. Its race-bred suspension system brings the driver in control of all movement, even under the toughest racing conditions.
Koenigsegg creates each car specifically for each customer. They are individual pieces of art. Leather contrasted with futuristic controls and refined surfaces encloses the occupants. It is an environment for adventure. The Koenigsegg hardtop is stored under the front bonnet during roofless driving. And crash-tests have verified that at least in terms of safety, a Koenigsegg is a truly Swedish car.
The first impression of the Koenigsegg CC is its dynamic stance and futuristic, aggressive attitude. It appears amazingly low and broad, with the cockpit-like semicircular windscreen and organically shaped rear hood as key features. The smooth and polished body is gently curved, almost simplistic; a fully integrated design. Lines and surfaces appear thoroughbred and slippery, projecting an image of velocity onto the machine. This design shouts in a clear and universal language: “I travel at extreme speeds!”
A Koenigsegg CC prototype was first publicised in 1997, while the production prototype was finally unveiled at the 2000 Paris Motor Show. The first customer took delivery of a red CC 8S in 2002 at the Geneva Auto Show and four more cars were built that year. Koenigsegg was established in Asia later that year with a premiere at the Seoul Auto Show. In 2004, the new CCR was unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show.
On February 22, 2003, one of Koenigsegg's production facilities caught fire and burned to the ground. The fire was extinguished with help from 40 firefighters from different fire departments (Ängelholm, Hjärnarp, Strövelstorp, Bjuv and Helsingborg), villagers from Margretetorp, and passers-by. About 15 Koenigsegg cars, body parts, machines and engines were saved before the fire got out of control. The cause of the fire was determined to be a short-circuit in the company kitchen dishwasher, which then spread to the roof, which was insulated with hay. On the same day, the Koenigsegg cars took refuge at the nearby former Swedish Airforce Base F10, near the town of Ängelholm, which lies in the southwestern-most part of Sweden. After a few days, the decision was made by von Koenigsegg that they would stay within the former wing to rise from the ashes. The Koenigsegg badge was designed in 1993 by Jacob Låftman, based on the shield of the Koenigsegg family. The shield has been the family's coat of arms since the 12th century when a family member was knighted by the German-based Holy Roman Empire.
The shape of the body was envisioned to be timeless and original, unrestricted by current fashion or a sellout to retro copying. The design crew at Koenigsegg has held on to those first sketches, pinpointing the essential elements that signal the Koenigsegg look. From the front bumper's shark-like mouth and nostrils, twin lines run up and around the cockpit, accentuating the eccentric windscreen. Its curved shape is pursued by the roof and sky-light, making the cockpit appear as if bent by immense power and motion. The Koenigsegg CC interior seems merged with the exterior; the dynamic flow of lines and surfaces continue into the cabin and naturally bind them together. The layout is strictly symmetrical, with its elements mirrored on the centreline. All details are refined and the surfaces are cleaned of unnecessary obstructions.
