The RB17. — Photos from Ed Bull
LONDON: Red Bull Advanced Technologies recently unveiled the RB17 hypercar at theGoodwood Festival of Speed.Designed by Adrian Newey, Oracle Red Bull Racing’s chief technical officer and the most successful designer in Formula One history, the RB17 was presented as a two-seater that brings Formula One performance to a track car.
Newey, reflecting on the journey, expressed his pride in the project, stating, "For it to finally be the day we pull the covers off and see the birth of the RB17, is truly remarkable."
The hypercar, marked by its immense power, speed, and beauty, is designed to offer the thrill of driving at F1 speeds with a friend or partner.
Significantly, the RB17 marks Newey's final project with Red Bull, capping a legacy of 20 years that includes six Constructors' Titles and seven Drivers' Championships. The unveiling also kicked off a weekend celebrating two decades of Oracle Red Bull Racing at Goodwood.
Oracle Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner hailed the RB17 as "a future classic," emphasising the blend of technical innovation and emotional appeal in this landmark car.
He said the project drew upon 20 years of F1 legacy and represented one of Red Bull Advanced Technologies' most exciting endeavours.
The RB17 showcases F1 technology and aerodynamics, featuring a carbon fibre monocoque chassis and a mid-mounted V10 engine that delivers over 1,200hp.
Weighing less than 900kg, the hypercar can reach top speeds in excess of 350kph, pulling about 5G under braking.
The V10 engine, red-lined at 15,000rpm, offers a symphony of racing sounds, providing an auditory experience reminiscent of the high-revving engines of Formula 1's past.
The car's power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a carbon-fibre gearbox.
Additionally, the RB17 is equipped with a hydraulically locking active differential and pushrod suspension with active control of ride height, roll, and mechanical balance, coupled with adjustable dampers.
This advanced suspension system ensures that the RB17 delivers optimal performance on the track while remaining easy to operate.
Safety features of the RB17 align with current Le Mans Hypercar safety regulations, underscoring the car's high-performance capabilities while ensuring driver and passenger safety. The hypercar runs on RON98 fuel and includes a 70-litre fuel capacity, complemented by a 200hp electrical drive system.
With only 50 models being produced and priced at around £6mil (RM36mil) apiece, each RB17 will offer owners exclusive access to track events at top circuits worldwide. The car will only be available in left-hand drive.
Newey explained that limiting production to 50 units allowed for close attention to detail and ensures that the car is produced entirely within the Red Bull Advanced Technologies factory, with key parts sourced from the same suppliers used by the F1 team.
Newey, who also wanted the car to be a visual and auditory masterpiece, chose a naturally aspirated engine to ensure a symphonic soundtrack matching its striking design.
