The Koenigsegg Gemera: The Evolution from TFG to V8
Introduction:
It’s been more than four years since Koenigsegg debuted the Jesko and Gemera just ahead of the 2020 Geneva Motor Show. The Gemera was the first home for a few of Koenigsegg’s pet projects, a hybrid powertrain based around a twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter three-cylinder dubbed the Tiny Friendly Giant (TFG). The engine featured cam-less Freevalve technology and was assisted by three electric motors. The Swedes claimed a combined 1,676 horsepower and 2,581 pound-feet of torque — 592 horses and 443 twists from the TFG — and a zero-to-62-mph sprint in 1.9 seconds. And now, two years later, the Gemera has evolved, replaced by the Jesko’s twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V8. This article will explore the transition from the TFG to the V8 powertrain in the Koenigsegg Gemera.
The Transition to the V8:
Initially powered by the Tiny Friendly Giant (TFG), the Gemera received an upgrade to the Jesko’s twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V8 engine. This change led to most customers opting for the V8 over the three-cylinder engine. The V8 option was reportedly a $400,000 upgrade, highlighting the appeal of the more powerful and traditional engine among buyers. While initially surprising, the shift from the TFG to the V8 can be seen as buyers choosing a different innovative feature that offered more familiarity and power.
The Journey to the V8:
To accommodate the Jesko’s V8 engine in the Gemera, Koenigsegg engineers had to make significant design changes, including modifying castings, heads, intake, exhaust, and sump. Additionally, the direct-drive transmission from the Regera was replaced with the Light Speed Tourbillon Transmission (LSTT), which was lighter and more efficient. A new six-phase e-motor, known as Dark Matter, replaced the original Quark e-motors, further reducing the overall weight of the powertrain. These changes enhanced the acceleration and performance of the Gemera while retaining key features such as all-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and four-wheel torque vectoring.
Comparing the Powertrains:
The original TFG powertrain featured three Quark e-motors that delivered a combined output of 1,100 hp. In contrast, the V8 powertrain with the Dark Matter e-motor produces 2,268 hp, significantly more horsepower. However, the torque output of the V8 is 553 lb-ft less than the TFG. The integration of the Dark Matter e-motor and the LSTT made the V8 powertrain lighter and more compact, contributing to improved performance and agility. Despite the increase in power, the V8 retains the advanced features of the Gemera, making it a compelling choice for buyers.
Future Possibilities:
While the TFG powertrain has been replaced by the V8 in the Gemera, Christian von Koenigsegg has expressed continued interest in the innovative technology. He mentioned that they are still exploring the TFG and might consider incorporating it into a future version of the Gemera. The potential for comparing two Gemeras with different powertrains remains a fascinating prospect, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of Koenigsegg’s engineering capabilities.
Conclusion:
The transition from the Tiny Friendly Giant to the V8 in the Koenigsegg Gemera represents a shift towards a more powerful and efficient powertrain. The upgrade to the Jesko’s twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V8 engine demonstrates Koenigsegg’s commitment to innovation and performance. Despite the initial novelty of the TFG, the appeal of the V8’s increased power and familiarity has captivated buyers. As Koenigsegg continues to explore new technologies and advancements, the future of the Gemera remains an exciting prospect for automotive enthusiasts.