Red Bull reveals RB17 hypercar at Goodwood Festival of Speed

ABU DHABI: Motoring enthusiasts were delighted with the launch of the new hypercar, the RB17, at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it was revealed by Red Bull Advanced Technologies.

The RB17 is the first hypercar designed solely by the Red Bull Advanced Technologies team, led by Adrian Newey. In comparison to the Aston Martin Valkyrie, which is street-legal in a few places, the RB17 is track-oriented and not road-legal anywhere.

The RB17 models will be limited to only 50 units, with owners invited to global track events. This limited production will facilitate Red Bull Advanced Technologies to manufacture the car in-house with the help of suppliers associated with their F1 team.

The RB17 is equipped with a lightweight carbon fiber monocoque chassis and a naturally aspirated, mid-mounted V10 engine that redlines at 15,000 rpm. Power is transferred to the rear wheels through a carbon fiber gearbox. The vehicle boasts over 1,200 HP and weighs under 900 kg. It can achieve speeds exceeding 350 kph and F1-equivalent lap times while pulling about 5G under braking, all while maintaining ease of operation and ownership.

The RB17’s total output is 1,200 hp, including around 200 HP from a rear-axle-mounted electric motor. Designed for rear-wheel drive, it can achieve Formula One car lap times. The RB17 can accommodate up to two passengers.

The RB17 gets three Michelin tyre options for different grip levels. It features carbon brakes,  hydraulic steering, and active pushrod suspension for controlling body roll and adjusting ride height.

For sports car racing the body of RB17 adheres to Le Mans Hypercar regulations, prioritizing aerodynamics. For optimal downforce, active rear and front wings can be adjusted, targeting 1700kg at 150mph.

Designed by Newey, the RB19, achieved a 96% win rate in 2023. Out of 23 races, it won 21 races. The development of road-going RB17 was an initiative to retain Newey at Red Bull. Newey got lucrative offers from rival teams such as McLaren and Ferrari, signaling his departure by the end of 2024 from Red Bull Racing, potentially leading to retirement.

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