From the track to the market. Like many major automakers before it, Red Bull expands its operations beyond sports, developing its first car for sale. The RB17, this is the name of the Hypercar from Milton Keynes, was created for exclusive use on the track for non-competitive purposes. Among its creators stands out the name of Adrian Newey, a famous designer working for the Formula 1 team, who for the first time was able to give space to his own ingenuity without being restricted by any regulation, giving life to something sensational.
On the occasion of the last episode of the podcast Talking BullNewey provided some previews on the new RB17, starting from the thought that guided its design: “It must be beautiful, it must look like a work of artas I think all cars of this type should be.” The shapes are however bent to the aerodynamic function, which has its priority in performance. Newey in particular has dusted off several solutions that have made his Formula 1 cars famous over the years, which were then banned by the regulations.
Extreme aerodynamics
Among the features of the RB17 the presence of the blown diffuser, which exploits hot exhaust gases to improve bottom performance, using them to isolate the diffuser from external turbulence and/or to energize its flows. The prerogative of the blown diffuser is an engine whose throttle remains open even during the release phase, so as to maintain a certain exhaust flow even during braking and cornering, situations in which the aerodynamic load is of maximum use. The Formula 1 Red Bulls of the early 1910s, in fact, were accompanied by an iconic “mumble” of the engine when braking, which will probably also distinguish the RB17. The Milton Keynes Hypercar will then have active suspensions to stabilize the bottom at heights from the ground and stable postures, maximizing the aerodynamic load when cornering without having to resort to excessively stiff springs and shock absorbers.
The final aerodynamic performance is such that it must be limited to safeguard the tires. Newey explains: “He will have active suspensions. They are necessary, because it releases an immense aerodynamic load, limited to 1700 kg to avoid overloading the tires. In reality, however, it reaches that value at around 240 km/h.” Above that speed, therefore, the excess aerodynamic load will be deliberately released to protect the tyres, but the RB17 would be in line to approach the 3000 kg released by Formula 1 cars. On the other hand, the lower load and therefore the lower aerodynamic resistance compared to a single-seater it could yield even greater straight-line speeds. Newey actually talks about a level of aerodynamic efficiency never heard before for a car.
Formula 1 performance
If the aesthetic aspect is exhilarating, the engine aspect will be no different. Anticipates Newey: “It should be exciting. This is why we chose a naturally aspirated V10 with a maximum speed of 15,000 rpm”. On this point, however, some contradictions emerge, as the official press release from Red Bull Technologies reports that a 1100 horsepower hybrid V8, against the 1000 horsepower 10-cylinder mentioned by the British engineer. In any case, these are powers comparable to those of Formula 1, as is the weight of 900 kg, also achieved through a carbon monocoque. Performance expectations are very high: “In the hands of a professional driver, the car is capable of Formula 1 lap times,” Newey promises.
Price and timing
During the long interview, Adrian Newey mentions that the images of the first 1:1 scale model will be published during next summer. 2025, however, will be the year of track tests and the official presentation of the RB17, which the English engineer hopes will be held on the occasion of the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring. Production will start in 2026 and will be located mainly in the Milton Keynes factories: “The main components will be produced here. For the rest, we would use the same suppliers we rely on in Formula 1.”
The RB17 will be made in 50 examples, at the price of £5 million each, net of taxes. The purchase will not be limited to the car alone, as customers will also be offered a simulator training program and the invitation to follow the Formula 1 Grand Prix in person. Owning the RB17 will therefore not just be a way to enjoy the Adrian Newey's creative flair, but it will be equivalent to securing an entry ticket into the Red Bull family.
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