Watch out, world: Koenigsegg returns to the Nürburgring

Guess who's back? Yes folks, Koenigsegg has made good on its promise to return to the Nürburgring to begin preliminary testing with its 1,340bhp One:1 'megacar'.

In the spy video posted above, you'll see the hypercar doing what it promised to do a couple of years ago. Sounds mighty, too: no surprise, given it houses a twin-turbocharged 5.0-litre V8. Fast, too - it'll go from 0-62mph in 2.8 seconds and top out at a theoretical 273mph. On top of that, it also comes with 600kg of downforce from that Le Mans-inspired rear wing, and a cornering force of 2G.

If you don't know why Koenigsegg is at the 'Ring, here's a quick recap. Back in December 2014, TG.com brought you news that company founder Christian von Koenigsegg reckoned his One:1 could could set a new lap record for road cars, judging by data already collected. “Given the straight-line performance of our cars,” he told us, “many people believe they are straight-line rockets.

“Actually, this is the least of our priorities and focuses. The massive engine power [of the One:1] is nice to have, but far less important than mechanical grip around most tracks,” he added.

So, the One:1's long wishbone suspension for example, "allows for a very small track width deviation during wheel movements, in combination with one of the highest downforce numbers ever achieved on a road-going vehicle". 

He added: "During our testing [at the Nürburgring], which so far has been for data collection and setup, we can already see the potential when comparing official data and videos from other manufacturers."

Then of course, came the speed restrictions installed on certain sections of the track, scuppering any potential record-breaking hot lap. Now, with those speed restrictions lifted, Christian is able to return and start testing.

Just last month, the company warned against any immediate times being posted. Factory test driver Robert Serwanski first has to get “intimate” knowledge of both the car’s setup, and of course, the terrifying 14-odd miles of track.

“Will we gun for a record this year? Maybe,” Koenigsegg explained recently. “So yes, you may see photos of us at the Nürburgring later this month. Don’t get too excited, however.

“This is a long road we’re on, and it ain’t over ‘til it’s over.”

Well, this is the first step. Watch out, hypercars of the world...