Red Bull unveils $6M hypercar with F1‑inspired design
12:11 PM EDT, July 15, 2024
"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 go on sale. We have just learned about the concept version.
The RB17 is nothing less than a hypercar inspired by Formula 1, created by one of the most outstanding race engineers in history. If everything goes according to plan, 50 units will be produced, all of which will go to the wealthiest people in the world. Each unit is expected to cost about $6 million despite lacking road homologation.
As befits a modern design, the Red Bull RB17 is, of course, a hybrid. A 4.5-liter V12 engine with 1,000 HP is combined with a 270 HP electric motor and enclosed in a rigid carbon fiber monocoque. The entire structure weighs no more than 1,980 pounds, resulting in an impressive power-to-weight ratio.
The aerodynamics also look promising. Red Bull promises up to 3,740 pounds of downforce, which, combined with slick tires and carbon fiber brakes, should result in spectacular track performance.
All this is paired with decent usability and durability. The car will be equipped with a front axle lift system and cabin storage compartments, and ordinary gasoline will power it. Red Bull also promises a warranty of up to 2,485 miles.
The team claims that each unit will be ready to handle the 24-hour Le Mans race without any issues after leaving the factory. Does that sound great? Time will tell how it will fare in practice.