Koenigsegg has once again pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering with its latest creation, the CC850. At the heart of this remarkable hypercar lies a groundbreaking transmission system. The new system blends the best aspects of a manual gearbox with cutting-edge technology. Let’s explore the intricacies of this extraordinary transmission and how it revolutionizes the driving experience.

The evolution of the Light Speed Transmission (LST)

The Koenigsegg CC850’s gearbox is an evolution of the nine-speed automated manual Light Speed Transmission (LST). The LST is available in the absurdly quick Koenigsegg Jesko. This new iteration, however, takes a bold departure from conventional paddle-shifting technology.

Instead of paddle shifters, the CC850 utilizes a shifter emerging from a classic slotted metal gate. The gate will be reminiscent of a traditional manual gearbox. In addition, a clutch pedal is also present on the left side. The combination creates a tactile connection between the driver and the transmission.

Innovative shift-by-wire technology

Although the shifter and clutch pedal gives the impression of a traditional manual setup, they are not mechanically linked to the transmission. Instead, the Koenigsegg CC850’s transmission is entirely shift-by-wire technology, a world-first in the automotive industry. This means the transmission’s electronic gear engagement and clutch control enhance precision and responsiveness.

The CC850’s transmission offers the driver two modes: manual and automatic. The driver can select from six of the nine forward ratios using the shifter in manual mode. The transmission seamlessly transitions into automatic mode by moving the lever to the rightmost position and pulling backward. In this mode, the transmission autonomously shifts through all nine gears. Overall, the automatic mode harnesses the immense power of the CC850’s 1,385 horsepower (on E85 fuel) for optimal performance.

The inner workings of the Light Speed Transmission

The Koenigsegg LST employs a unique arrangement of gears and clutches that sets it apart from conventional dual-clutch transmissions. Instead of gearsets physically moving, the LST utilizes three shafts, each housing two permanently engaged gears. The combination of gears that transmits power to the wheels is determined by the precise opening and closing of seven compact clutches within the transmission.

Christian von Koenigsegg himself provides insights into the operation and feel of the LST transmission. He describes it as a “clutch-by-wire” system. The pressure you apply to the clutch pedal is electronic, mimicking the sensation of a traditional clutch. The shifter, although challenging to design due to the absence of forks or synchros, employs force-feedback mechanisms to create a realistic shifting experience. The objective is to make the transmission feel like a fusion of a Mazda Miata and a Ferrari gated shifter, combining the best attributes of both worlds.

Should more cars give you the option between manual or automatic?

In conclusion, Koenigsegg’s newest transmission represents a significant leap forward in automotive engineering. The blend of a 6-speed manual and a 9-speed automatic, controlled through innovative shift-by-wire technology, delivers a unique driving experience that combines tradition and innovation. The result is a transmission system that offers precise control, lightning-fast shifts, and optimum performance while maintaining the tactile feel of a traditional manual gearbox. Koenigsegg’s CC850 is a testament to the brand’s unwavering pursuit of excellence and the relentless pursuit of driving pleasure.