The Red Bull hypercar will be able to match the performance of a Formula 1 car
Red Bull should launch its first Hypercar in 2024, with an expected power of around 1250 horsepower. Engineer Adrian Newey is convinced that the vehicle will achieve a level of performance comparable to that of a Formula 1 car.
Red Bull has embarked on an unprecedented challenge in the history of the group. The energy drink brand is working on the creation of its first Hypercar, the RB17. The model is designed by the iconic engineer Adrian Newey and is expected to reach nearly 1250 horsepower.
In total, the car will be produced in 50 units. The German company plans to unveil its model during the year 2024.
The objective of Red Bull is to create a Hypercar capable of competing in terms of performance with a Formula 1. Adrian Newey stated that the sports car will be able to achieve Formula 1 lap times if driven by a professional driver.
Forbidden technologies in F1
While the structure of the RB17 is completely different from a typical Formula 1 car, the engineers chose to use techniques that are prohibited in F1. They will be combined with technologies used in Adrian Newey’s previous cars. « We pulled out all the stops, so it has a blown diffuser and an active suspension as well », explained the sixty-year-old. « The purpose of the active suspension is to provide a highly stable aerodynamic platform while maintaining sensible spring rates in order not to be shaken on bumps. It will not be as stiff as a current Formula 1 car or a car racing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. »
The RB 17 will be equipped with a diffuser that uses exhaust gases to increase the downforce generated by the rear of the car. The car will have two seats. The work has been done to maximize weight reduction in order to achieve better efficiency. The vehicle will weigh less than 900 kg. « It’s a bit mind-boggling to see that this two-seater car can produce this kind of performance », admitted Adrian Newey. It was really achieved by playing with the usual key parameters. The car will have 1,000 horsepower for less than 900 kg and a naturally aspirated V10 engine.
The British engineer added: « Then we have a 200 horsepower electric engine and it serves various functions. Obviously, it provides additional power, but it also smoothes out the torque, makes gear shifting smoother, provides reverse, first gear, and the starter. »
The RB17 will use adapted tires. Red Bull and Michelin are working on special tires to avoid excessive strain on the tires.
