Adrian Newey, the mastermind behind the Red Bull RB17 hypercar, is set to debut this track-only, V10-powered beast at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 12, 2024. This hypercar, designed, developed, and manufactured entirely in-house by Red Bull, has been long-awaited since its announcement in July 2022. The RB17 is hailed as the purest execution of an F1-inspired hypercar, rivaling other track-only creations like the Aston Martin Valkyrie, Ferrari 499P Modificata, and Bugatti Bolide.
The RB17 features a carbon fibre monocoque chassis with seating for two, housing a mid-mounted V10 engine that revs up to an astonishing 15,000rpm and produces over 1,100bhp. This powerhouse engine surpasses the 1,000bhp Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro and is complemented by a 200bhp electric motor to boost power and assist in reverse gear drive.
Unlike the road-legal Valkyrie, the RB17 is designed purely for the track, allowing Newey to focus solely on aerodynamics without the constraints of road car regulations. The car promises scintillating performance with its lightweight carbon-composite tub and the most advanced ground effect package available in a series production car. The RB17 boasts a blown diffuser, active suspension, and aerodynamics that provide its weight in downforce at 120mph, ensuring optimal grip.
Production of the RB17 is scheduled to commence in 2025 at Red Bull’s 290-acre campus in Milton Keynes, where only 50 units will be handcrafted in left-hand drive configuration, each priced at £5 million plus local taxes. Buyers will receive a bespoke package tailored to their needs, with full factory support, servicing, and maintenance. Additionally, the 50 exclusive owners will have access to the Red Bull Racing team’s facilities, simulators, development program, on-track training, and experiences.
The name RB17 pays homage to Red Bull Racing’s F1 lineage, with the hypercar representing a new chapter in the brand’s legacy. Red Bull has released official sketches of the RB17, showcasing its aerodynamic design and two-seater cockpit covered by a racing canopy. The car’s appearance is expected to resemble virtual racers from the Gran Turismo series, such as the Red Bull X2010, X2014, and X2019, all crafted by Adrian Newey.
Christian Horner, CEO of Red Bull Racing and Red Bull Advanced Technologies, expressed pride in the RB17, highlighting its significance as Red Bull’s first collector’s hypercar. Adrian Newey emphasized the RB17’s groundbreaking performance, pushing design and technical boundaries to new levels for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Despite his impending departure from Red Bull in 2025, Adrian Newey remains dedicated to delivering the RB17 with unwavering commitment. As the visionary behind this exceptional hypercar, Newey’s legacy will endure through the RB17’s revolutionary design and unparalleled performance, setting a new standard for track-focused automotive excellence.