Red Bull Racing Apex: Unveiling the RB17 Hypercar at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed
The motorsport world is about to witness an engineering marvel as the Red Bull Racing team plans to debut its premiere hypercar, the RB17, at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed. This track-exclusive gem will be a rarity, with only 50 units set for production, each commanding a starting price of $6.48 million.
Pioneering Hypercar Innovation
Following the 2022 teaser, the RB17 is breaking new ground with its dynamic design and potent powertrain. This isn’t just another hypercar; it’s a testament to Red Bull Racing’s continuous pursuit of excellence, derived directly from their Formula 1 expertise.
Engineering Excellence
The centerpiece of the RB17 is a naturally aspirated, mid-mounted V-10 engine that can scream up to 15,000 rpm. Although details on the engine architecture remain undisclosed, it’s revealed that the V-10 alone generates around 1,000 horsepower. Bolstering this powerhouse is an electric motor that adds an extra 200 horsepower, culminating in an impressive total of 1,200 horsepower delivered to the rear wheels.
The electric motor doesn’t just aid in sheer power but also ensures seamless gear transitions, especially during first and reverse gears. The entire gearbox system, crafted from carbon fiber, underscores the cutting-edge technology integrated into this hypercar.
Featherweight Powerhouse
With an estimated weight of just under 1,984 pounds, the RB17 promises to bring F1-like performance to the track. It’s designed to achieve top speeds exceeding 217 mph, a true testament to Adrian Newey’s vision. Newey, Red Bull Racing’s Chief Technical Officer and F1 design legend, is the mastermind behind this engineering marvel. Notably, Newey has previously brought to life the Aston Martin Valkyrie.
Advanced Aerodynamics
Aerodynamic mastery is at the heart of the RB17’s design. The hypercar boasts the most sophisticated ground effects package available, with features such as adjustable aerodynamics, side skirts, and an active suspension system. These innovations aim to eliminate the bouncing phenomenon, known as porpoising, which has been a challenge for many modern F1 cars, including those from Mercedes-Benz AMG.
A standout feature is the blown diffuser, expertly channeling exhaust gases over the rear diffuser to maximize downforce. This design produces downforce equivalent to the car’s weight at 120 mph and can peak at an astounding 3,750 pounds at 150 mph. This immense downforce is crucial not only for lap times that rival those in F1 but also for safeguarding tire integrity.
Exclusive Ownership Experience
While the RB17 won’t be hitting public roads, owning one opens doors to an exclusive Red Bull family experience. Owners will enjoy unique track events, driver training sessions, and bespoke customization options, from paint finishes to interior materials, ensuring every RB17 is tailored to the buyer’s specifications. Red Bull will also handle all service and maintenance, providing unparalleled customer support.
A Nod to History
The RB17 moniker pays homage to Red Bull Racing’s F1 lineage. The team’s 2021 F1 car was initially intended to carry the RB17 designation but was later renamed as the RB16B.
Production for this limited-run hypercar is scheduled to kick off in 2025 at Red Bull Racing’s headquarters in Milton Keynes, UK. The anticipation building around the RB17 reflects the brand’s relentless drive to push the boundaries of automotive engineering.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
