Red Bull Unleashes Track Monster: 1200hp RB17 Hypercar Debuts
Red Bull Unveils Track-Scorching RB17 Hypercar
Formula One mastermind Adrian Newey has unveiled his latest creation: the monstrous RB17 hypercar. Built for the track and not the road, this beast boasts a mind-blowing 1,200 horsepower thanks to a screaming, naturally-aspirated V10 engine and a 200hp electric motor.
With a feather-light weight of just 805kg and a top speed exceeding 350 kilometers per hour, the RB17 promises to be a record-breaker on the track. Although development began in 2021, the engine won’t roar to life until later this year, and we’ll have to wait until next summer to see this champion tear up the asphalt during testing. Only 50 lucky individuals will have the chance to own this exclusive hypercar.
Heir to the Track: RB17 Builds on Valkyrie Legacy
The RB17 can be seen as a track-focused successor to the Aston Martin Valkyrie. While Newey played a major role in designing the Valkyrie for road use during a past collaboration between Aston Martin and Red Bull, the RB17 is a purebred track machine.
This beast is built by a team of roughly 120 engineers at Red Bull Advanced Technologies. It boasts cutting-edge technology straight from F1, including active aerodynamics and suspension systems. These advanced features allow for extensive customization across various systems in the car.
Despite the mind-blowing performance, Newey emphasizes that the RB17, constructed from lightweight carbon fiber, should still be manageable and enjoyable even for drivers with less experience.
From AWD to Hybrid Muscle: RB17 Powertrain Evolves
The RB17’s powertrain went through a transformation. Initially planned for all-wheel drive with a twin-turbo V8 and electric motor combo, the final design features a high-revving, naturally-aspirated V10 monster. This 1,000hp engine screams to a staggering 15,000 rpm!
Teamed with this beast is a 200hp electric motor seamlessly integrated into the carbon fiber transmission (similar to their F1 cars). This electric motor serves multiple purposes: boosting performance, acting as a starter motor, enabling reverse gear, and helping launch the car from a standstill.
Keeping things light, the RB17 sheds unnecessary weight, tipping the scales at a mere 805kg in its bare minimum form (think minus air conditioning and a fancy window). This featherweight champion measures roughly five meters long and two meters wide.
To maximize performance on the track, three Michelin-developed tire options are available. The ultimate choice: slick tires, unlocking the RB17’s full potential and propelling it to over 350 kph.
Despite the lack of street cred, Newey hints that owners could potentially modify the RB17 for road use, although that wouldn’t be the factory setup. Since it’s a track-only car, it avoids regulations on emissions and some safety features. However, safety wasn’t completely ignored – the RB17 meets LMH motorsport safety standards.
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Forget the official racing series – the RB17 isn’t built for competition. Instead, Red Bull plans to host exclusive track day experiences for owners. To refine the car’s accessibility for a wider range of drivers, not just their F1 stars like Verstappen, they’ll also be inviting a broader group of drivers for testing.
