Red Bull unveils production version of RB17: Final details before launch
Red Bull RB17: From Prototype to Reality. The Final Design of the 15,000 RPM "Beast"
The automotive world held a key moment in July 2024 when Red Bull Advanced Technologies revealed the first lines of its debut hypercar. Today, the mystery has been completely dispelled. The Austrian brand has officially unveiled the final design for the RB17, a car that promises to redefine the limits of track performance ahead of scheduled deliveries later this year.
Designed under the watchful eye of engineering genius Adrian Newey, the RB17 is not just a style exercise; it's a Formula 1 car wrapped in a hypercar body.
Shape Evolution: Sharper, More Compact
Compared to the prototype initially shown at Goodwood, the production version of the RB17 has undergone a rigorous refinement process. The result? A much more aggressive silhouette and more compact dimensions, optimised for extreme agility.
- Front: New ultra-slim LED headlights are now perfectly integrated into a sculpted body that appears to "cut" the air.
- Active Aerodynamics: Every line has a functional role. Deep channels on the flanks direct airflow to the massive rear radiators, while the roof air intake feeds the heart of the car.
- Transitional Elements: Although it is a car dedicated exclusively to the circuit, the presence of rear-view mirrors and a windshield wiper suggests increased attention to driver ergonomics in varied conditions.
The Heart Under the Hood: The Cosworth Symphony at 15,000 RPM
The RB17's powertrain remains the pinnacle of performance. Red Bull has opted for a solution that will make any fan of the classic Formula 1 sound vibrate:
- Engine: A naturally aspirated 4.5-liter V10, created by the legendary engineers at Cosworth. It revs to a dizzying 15,000 rpm, producing 1,000 hp on its own.
- Hybrid System: An additional electric motor adds another 200 hp, giving a combined total of 1,200 hp.
- Transmission: Power is handled by a 6-speed sequential gearbox made of carbon fiber. Interestingly, the electric motor handles only reverse, eliminating the need for additional sprockets in the gearbox to reduce weight.
Did you know? The RB17 weighs less than 900 kg, which means it has a power-to-weight ratio of over 1.3 hp per kilogram – a figure that exceeds many competition single-seaters.
A Purist Interior: No Distractions
Inside, Red Bull has stripped away any unnecessary luxury. The cabin is a sanctuary of speed, where touchscreens and infotainment systems have been replaced by essential physical controls and a yoke-style steering wheel. Everything is geared towards the driver, providing a visceral driving experience unadulterated by modern digital technology.
Exclusivity and Final Tests
Production will be limited to just 50 examples, making the RB17 an instant collector's item. The hypercar is currently undergoing the final stages of track testing to validate the aerodynamic package capable of generating up to 1,700 kg of downforce.
Although the price has not been officially made public, market sources estimate that future owners will have to fork out over 5 million euros for the privilege of owning this piece of Red Bull history.