Red Bull unveils £5m RB17 hypercar inspired by F1 engineering
"I bought a Red Bull" is about to take on a new meaning. In collaboration with F1 designer Adrian Newey, the legendary brand is working on a customer car that will be available for purchase. We have just seen the concept version.
RB17 is nothing less than a hypercar inspired by Formula 1, created by one of the most outstanding racing engineers in history. If everything goes according to plan, 50 units will be made, all to go to the wealthiest individuals in the world. Each unit is expected to cost around £5 million, despite the lack of road homologation.
As befits a modern design, the Red Bull RB17 is, of course, a hybrid. A 4.5-litre V12 engine with 1,000 HP is combined with a 270 HP electric assist and housed in a rigid monocoque made of carbon fibre. The entire construction weighs no more than 900 kilograms, which means an impressive power-to-weight ratio.
The aerodynamics are equally impressive. Red Bull promises up to 1,700 kilograms of downforce, which should result in spectacular track performance combined with slick tyres and carbon fibre brakes.
All this comes together with decent usability and durability. The car will be equipped with, among other things, a front axle lift system and storage compartments in the cabin, and regular petrol will suffice to power the drivetrain. Red Bull also promises a warranty of up to 4,000 kilometres.
The team claims that once it leaves the factory, each unit will be ready to complete the 24 Hours of Le Mans race without any issues. Does that sound great? Time will tell how it will be in practice.
