The world of ultra-rare hypercars rarely spills into public feuds, but a recent clash between Koenigsegg’s founder, Christian von Koenigsegg, and collector Steve Hamilton has ignited a social media storm. The dispute centers on a delayed $2 million Regera, escalating into a direct, and surprisingly candid, exchange between creator and customer.
The Escalation
The conflict began when Hamilton, known for his automotive collection, posted a digitally altered image depicting Koenigsegg as the Marvel villain Thanos, accusing the company of stalling his car delivery. The caption demanded action, suggesting widespread dissatisfaction among Koenigsegg owners. This prompted a direct response from Christian von Koenigsegg himself, delivered via a video posted on his personal Instagram account.
Koenigsegg’s Response: Payment and Production Timelines
Koenigsegg clarified that Hamilton’s second payment for the Regera wasn’t received until early 2025, with the final build specifications only confirmed in May. He stated that the car is currently undergoing final testing and polishing, with a scheduled shipment at the end of November.
Addressing earlier complaints about the Regera, Koenigsegg revealed that Hamilton’s vehicle was a second-hand purchase from a dealer, lacking critical updates for three years. The company even provided these updates free of charge, after which Hamilton ordered a new Jesko.
Miscommunication or Quality Concerns?
The dispute highlights a broader question about quality control in hypercar production. Koenigsegg acknowledged that extreme performance vehicles occasionally experience initial issues, but emphasized the brand’s commitment to upgrades and ensuring long-term reliability. He noted that many Regera owners have driven their cars extensively without major problems.
The Buyer’s Counterclaim: Quality Issues
Hamilton, in his own response, asserted that the Regera has inherent quality issues, citing dissatisfaction among other owners. He clarified that the final payment remains pending until the car is ready for shipment, aligning with the agreed-upon terms.
The Bigger Picture
The public exchange underscores the challenges of building and delivering ultra-exclusive vehicles. Koenigsegg’s willingness to engage directly with a dissatisfied customer, while unusual, reflects the brand’s commitment to transparency, even in the face of criticism. The incident raises questions about the balance between exclusivity, customization, and timely delivery in the hypercar market.
The Outcome
The dispute remains unresolved, but Koenigsegg’s willingness to address the issue publicly has drawn attention to the complexities of high-end automotive production. Whether the two parties will reach a resolution remains to be seen, but the incident serves as a rare glimpse into the world of ultra-rare hypercars and the expectations of their discerning clientele
