Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Reclaims 0–400–0 km/h World Record From Rimac Nevera

Koenigsegg has regained the 0–400–0 km/h world record for road-legal production cars, beating the Rimac Nevera R. Factory test driver Markus Lundh drove the Jesko Absolut clocking a time of 25.21 seconds at Örebro airfield, improving on Koenigsegg’s own 2024 record and surpassing Rimac’s benchmark.

What Are The Software Changes and Performance Gains?

The improvement came from updated drivetrain software, known as “Absolut Overdrive.” Engineers recalibrated the Light Speed Transmission and engine management system and added a new torque control system to improve traction management.

These updates will be applied to all customer Jesko Absolut models. Here are the top things to know about the Koenigsegg Jesko.

What Are The Record Runs?

Koenigsegg’s 25.21-second run for 0–400–0 km/h (0–249–0 mph) was 0.58 seconds faster than Rimac’s 25.79 seconds. The Jesko also completed the 0–250–0 mph challenge in 25.67 seconds, 0.53 seconds quicker than Rimac’s 26.20 seconds.

Comparison to Rimac Nevera R:

The Jesko Absolut produces 1,600 hp from a twin-turbocharged 5.0-litre V8, driving only the rear wheels. The Rimac Nevera R uses an all-wheel-drive electric system with 2,107 hp. This fact is what makes the record all the more special.

What Are The Key Engineering Features Of The Jesko Absolut?

Koenigsegg’s achievement is built on several engineering solutions:

• 5.0-Litre V8 – Twin-turbocharged, flat-plane crank, producing 1,600 hp on E85. Uses air-injection to keep turbos spooled between gear changes.
• Light Speed Transmission – Nine-speed multi-clutch system. Shifts to any gear instantly without going through each ratio. Weighs about 90 kg.
• Low-Drag Bodywork – Extended tail, removed rear wing, and flush panels reduce drag to about 0.278 Cd. Designed using CFD and wind tunnel testing.
• Torque Control System – New software adjusts engine torque in milliseconds. Uses wheel-speed, yaw-rate, and acceleration data for maximum grip.
• Carbon-Fibre Chassis – Monocoque with aluminium honeycomb sections. Very high torsional rigidity for better suspension control.
• Carbon-Ceramic Brakes – 410 mm discs at the front and 395 mm at the rear. Brake-by-wire system modulates pressure and integrates with ABS.

How Were The Conditions and Verification Made?

The run took place on a dry track after earlier rain. Despite the conditions, Jesko’s aerodynamic design and traction control systems contributed to the result.

The record was measured using Racelogic equipment, with the data independently verified.

Koenigsegg founder Christian von Koenigsegg noted that achieving this with a rear-wheel-drive combustion car “beating all 4-wheel drive electric cars in a straight line” and shows that “truths” can be rewritten.

Why Is This World Record Important?

The 0–400–0 km/h test measures a car’s acceleration, top-speed stability, and braking performance. Achieving it in just over 25 seconds requires a balance of engine power, aerodynamics, traction control, and braking systems working in unison.

The record shows that a petrol-engine, rear-wheel-drive car can still compete against and beat high-powered all-wheel-drive electric hypercars in outright straight-line performance. It also reflects the Koenigsegg’s focus on software as much as mechanical engineering, with fine-tuned control systems playing a decisive role.

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