Red Bull Unveils a Futuristic Hypercar Inspired by Formula 1

When the iconic energy drink giant dedicates its substantial resources to crafting its inaugural automobile, expect something extraordinary. Red Bull’s RB17 emerges as a sleek, aerodynamic marvel that generates nearly twice its weight in downforce.

At this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner amazed enthusiasts with the introduction of the RB17, Red Bull’s latest venture into extreme sports.

This hybrid mid-engine powerhouse, with 1,200 horsepower (895 kW), surpasses 217 mph, driven by a naturally aspirated 4.5-liter V10 engine roaring at 15,000 rpm.

Horner commented on the team’s achievement, stating, “With two decades of history in Formula 1 and our focus on performance, creating our own hypercar from scratch was a natural step for us.”

Adrian Newey Leads the Production of 50 Cutting-Edge Monocoque Hypercars

By enlisting Adrian Newey, the most successful designer in Formula 1 history, Red Bull has procured carbon fibers and other essential materials from its Formula 1 suppliers to produce 50 of these cutting-edge monocoque hypercars.

Is it even appropriate to call it a hypercar anymore? It began with sports cars, then supercars, and now hypercars. Koenigsegg once suggested the term “Megacar“… But the RB17 seems poised to herald the next phase in high-performance evolution.

Red Bull positions it more as a two-seater F1 car, suggesting that it transcends the typical “hypercar” category.

Lightweight Marvel

While the RB17 may not boast the highest horsepower figures among its peers, with “only” 1,200 hp, it is one of the lightest at 1,984 lb (900 kg), resulting in an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 1,210 hp per ton.

To put this into perspective against Formula 1, it exceeds Max Verstappen’s RB20 F1 car, which achieves 1,137 hp per ton. Remarkably, this is achieved using pump gas, specifically 98 octane.

It brings to mind the scene from “Good Will Hunting” where Will triumphantly slaps the napkin against the window, saying, “You like apples? I got her number. How do you like them apples?“

So, what do you do with that kind of power? Well, one thing you can’t do is take it to your local Starbucks, as the RB17 will not be street-legal anywhere, similar to Ferrari’s FXX-K designed exclusively for racetracks.

It remains unclear whether a team of engineers will transport the car to every track event or if owners can store it in their garage, but with a price tag of US$7.5 million, such details may be of little concern to buyers.

Performance-Driven Design

Every line and curve of the RB17 serves a purpose driven by performance. Equipped with active aerodynamics in its front and rear wings, as well as in the diffuser, the RB17 can generate nearly 1.9 tons (1,725 kg, 3,800 lb) of downforce – nearly double its own weight – at high speeds.

This immense downforce anchors the car to the track, enabling cornering forces that challenge conventional physics. Its F1-inspired pushrod suspension adjusts ride height dynamically to maximize grip.

To decelerate from speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour and withstand forces up to 5G, the RB17 features carbon anti-lock brake-by-wire systems fitted behind its 18-inch Michelin tires.

Personalized Perfection

Red Bull plans to customize the aesthetic design uniquely for each of its 50 buyers, allowing them to select interior and exterior colors and materials tailored to their preferences. Additionally, Red Bull offers bespoke “details” packages while maintaining consistent basic functionalities across all units. The car includes dedicated storage for a helmet and racing attire, such as fire suits.

Jeremy Clarkson once likened the Bugatti Chiron to a force of nature, saying, “This doesn’t challenge the law of physics. It bludgeons them.” In contrast, the RB17 seems poised to meticulously dissect and master the laws of physics on timed road courses.

As for its name, the RB17 derives from Max Verstappen’s progression during the pandemic, driving the 2020 RB16 F1 car before transitioning directly to the RB18 in 2022, leaving the RB17 name available.

We eagerly anticipate witnessing the RB17 in action at Nürburgring Nordschleife, showcasing its unmatched speed and handling capabilities. cough Max, are you up for it?

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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