This Red Bull Beast is Faster Than an F1 Car—Here's How
The automotive world is no stranger to hyperbole, but when Red Bull announced their RB17, even the most grounded gearheads were forced to double-take. Unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, this sensational machine boasts a staggering 1,200 horsepower emanating from a 4.5-liter V-10 engine. Coupled with a mere sub-2,000-pound curb weight and capable of generating up to 3,747 pounds of downforce, the RB17 isn't just a car—it's a force of nature.
The mastermind behind this engineering marvel is none other than Adrian Newey, Red Bull's soon-departing design prodigy. Newey disclosed some jaw-dropping facts during the unveil, notably that the RB17, in simulation tests, outpaced a modern Formula 1 car. Specifically, it was about a second quicker per lap around Silverstone when compared to the pole position at the recent British Grand Prix.
Breaking Down the Specifications
What makes the RB17 stand out isn’t just raw power, but its sophisticated integration of technologies. The car features active suspension and tailored downforce settings that adjust based on speed and driver input. According to Newey, these characteristics make the RB17 accessible to seasoned amateurs who have trained in the simulator, as well as expert drivers capable of exploiting its full potential.
The RB17’s driving performance isn't just theoretical. Newey revealed, “In our simulations, driver-in-the-loop simulations, they would’ve comfortably been on pole in Silverstone last weekend.” While simulations invariably carry a margin of error, the car's performance is unquestionably within the elite spectrum of modern motorsport.
The Michelin Advantage
Adding to its allure, the RB17 rides on bespoke Michelin tires that are highly confidential in their formulation. These tires, similar to those used in LMDh and Hypercar series, utilize undisclosed compounds, with Michelin even reclaiming them post-run to keep the secrets guarded. Besides these confidential tires, the RB17 also offers two other Michelin options: a treaded tire and a slick. These alternatives are designed to ease driving capabilities, albeit with some performance compromises.
Further enhancing the RB17's versatility, Red Bull Advanced Technologies' technical director Rob Gray mentioned that the engine offers multiple power modes. This allows drivers to adjust the car's power levels, ensuring a seamless blend of high performance and drivability.
Limited Run, Maximum Impact
Red Bull plans to produce just 50 units of the RB17, starting next year. These machines are set to become the crown jewels of track days around the globe, pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible from a track-focused vehicle.
In summary, the Red Bull RB17 is not just a hypercar; it's a glimpse into the future of automotive innovation. With its peerless blend of power, technology, and aerodynamic mastery, the RB17 will redefine how we perceive speed and performance on the racetrack.