The Red Bull RB 17, a two-seater claimed to have a faster speed than an F1 car, represents engineer Adrian Newey’s final project for Red Bull.
The Red Bull RB 17, designed by Adrian Newey, is an impressive hyperCar capable of outpacing a Formula 1 car on the track. Unveiled at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, this V10-powered RB17 boasts 1200hp and marks Newey’s departure from Red Bull. Only 50 units of this remarkable vehicle will be manufactured.
The Red Bull RB17 is exclusively designed for the track, featuring a combination of a 1,000hp naturally aspirated V10 engine and a 200hp electric motor. Weighing only 805kg, the RB17 can reach a top speed of over 350kph.
The RB17 project, initiated in 2021, is set to accelerate, with plans to conduct the inaugural test firing of the Cosworth-engineered engine on the dynamometer later this year. The vehicle is anticipated to hit the track for the first time during summer next year.
About- Red Bull RB 17
The RB17 serves as a follow-up to the Aston Martin Valkyrie, which was the initial road car that Newey played a significant role in engineering through a partnership that no longer exists between Aston and Red Bull. Unlike the Valkyrie, which was intended for road use, the Red Bull RB 17 is a dedicated track vehicle developed by a group of approximately 120 engineers at Red Bull Advanced Technologies.
The Red Bull RB 17 is equipped with cutting-edge active aerodynamics and suspension systems derived from F1 technology. The extensive array of technology integrated into the RB17 allows for a wide range of adjustments across various systems. Despite its impressive performance capabilities, Newey aims to ensure that the carbon fibre RB17 remains user-friendly and exploitable, catering to drivers with varying levels of experience..
The initial intention was to design the Red Bull RB 17 as a four-wheel drive vehicle equipped with a twin-turbocharged V8 engine powering the rear wheels and an electric motor powering the front wheels. Nevertheless, the ultimate production version will feature a high-revving, naturally aspirated V10 engine developed by Cosworth and paired with a traditional hybrid system.
The V10 engine produces 1,000hp and can reach up to 15,000rpm. It is connected to a carbon fiber transmission designed by Red Bull, similar to the one utilized in their F1 vehicle, and incorporates a 200hp electric motor. This electric motor not only enhances performance but also serves as a starter motor, reverse gear, and aids in moving the car from a stationary position.
The RB17 weights only 805kg in its most lightweight configuration, excluding features like air conditioning and a glass windscreen. It measures approximately five meters in length and two meters in width. There will be three different tire choices available, all of which have been created in collaboration with Michelin specifically for the Red Bull RB 17. One of these options is a slick tire that allows the car to reach its maximum performance capabilities, enabling it to achieve a top speed of over 350kmh.
Despite not being road-legal, Newey indicated that individuals could modify it for road use if desired. As a car designed exclusively for track use, it is not subject to regulations regarding emissions and safety, although Newey mentioned that it has been engineered to adhere to LMH motorsport safety standards.
The RB17 is disqualified from participating in current race series, prompting Red Bull to provide exclusive track days and experiences for customers. In addition to F1 drivers like Verstappen using the car on simulators for development purposes, a diverse group of drivers will be invited to test it in order to maximize accessibility.