Meet ‘Dark Matter’: An 86-lb, 800-hp EV Motor By Koenigsegg

The automotive performance industry once lived by the motto, “there’s no replacement for displacement.” However, Koenigsegg’s Dark Matter electric motor shows that this belief is quickly becoming outdated.

In 2023, the front axle of the Gemera was outfitted with the Dark Matter motor, a marvel that weighs just 86 pounds (39 kg) yet delivers an astonishing 800 hp (600 kW) and 922 lb-ft (1,250 Nm) of torque. Operating at 8,500 RPM, this compact motor measures only 15.1 inches wide and 5.3 inches thick—about the size of a Roomba vacuum cleaner.

The secret behind its performance lies in Koenigsegg’s innovative “raxial flux” technology, which blends radial and axial flux motor designs into a single, groundbreaking approach. While the radial flux design, like that found in Tesla’s Plaid motors, emphasizes high RPM and compact size, the axial flux design offers a pancake-style layout optimized for high torque. By combining the best features of both, Koenigsegg has redefined what is possible for electric motor performance, challenging traditional assumptions about size, weight, and power.

The entire motor component, including the rotor and stator, utilizes carbon fiber materials instead of conventional laminated steel. The automotive industry has never seen such a weight-efficient, high-strength construction in electric vehicle motors, which demonstrates Koenigsegg’s commitment to uncompromising engineering.

The 6-phase power system (above conventional 3-phase) delivers superior torque performance with reduced ripple while maintaining lower temperatures.

The Gemera combines its Dark Matter motor with a 5-liter Hot V8 to generate 1,500 hp, which the Light Speed Tourbillon Transmission (LSTT) controls.

The Koenigsegg Dark Matter engine proves that high performance can exist independently of engine displacement standards. Extensive power capabilities now exist without requiring large physical dimensions because innovative technology has taken over traditional size requirements.