Hypercars exist on different echelon since it’s about extreme engineering along with embracing the science of speed. It is not just about outrageous speed but aerodynamics as carmakers try to push the limits of physics.
The hypercar genre was given birth by the Bugatti Veyron and to some extent the various Pagani’s along with Koenigsegg. The concept of outrageous money along with horsepower breaching the 1000bhp mark was undoubtedly championed by Bugatti. Over the years, the Bugatti Chiron, Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut and other cars like the Hennessey have further moved the game ahead and establishing a new kind of hypercar for the ultra-wealthy with limited edition status plus engineering witchcraft.
Hypercars: Outrageous Money Meets Outrageous Power
Speed sells unlike anything and headline grabbing acceleration and top-speeds are crucial in this rarified market place.
Bugatti and Koenigsegg know that their customers want the fastest and the most powerful cars around with a relentless push towards more power and top-speeds-even if you cannot deploy it on the public road.
Hypercars: Engineered Witchcraft
However, with the Koenigsegg CC850 and the Bugatti Tourbillion, we are seeing a different side and in going back to basics with each of them embracing a more analogue touch. Hence, the question is whether top-speed is the only thing that drives buyers to these cars. Well, Bugatti and Koenigsegg have realised that it is not the only thing, but numbers do tell a lot of the story.
Speed has changed and today it is about how you chase it along with embracing it as well. The science of speed and the big numbers are not just 1000bhp plus power outputs but also downforce, weight saving and use of exotic materials. Speed is just the byproduct.
Koenigsegg
Pushing the Limits of Physics
The Tourbillion for example has a naturally aspirated motor while the CC850 uses a manual gearbox as well. These things add to the joy of driving the car while not necessarily pushing the brutal philosophy of outright numbers. In the Bugatti Tourbillion, the exposed detailing reminiscent of a Swiss watch also further drives home this point. Koenigsegg also has understood that and the focus on craftsmanship and materials is there to see while shifting focus from the outrageous speed that has been the staple of this brand.
It seems speed has a new meaning these days and, in the future, we can see hypercar makers experimenting with different facets too.
What’s new in hypercars? Head here.
Somnath Chatterjee grew up around cars and most of his childhood was spent obsessing over supercars. Years later he decided to start writing about them and hasn’t looked back since. While he has had his fair share of cars, the world of automobiles never ceases to amaze him. Travelling all over the world to drive them along with sharing that experience is what ultimately keeps him going. He hopes to drive a Ferrari 288 GTO someday because, well, do you really need a reason?
