Red Bull Technology has unveiled its new RB17 hypercar, which is described as an embodiment of “all the good stuff they got rid of from Formula 1.” The car, created by lead engineer Adrian Newey, is not road-legal and has been engineered exclusively for track use. According to Red Bull Technology boss Christian Horner, this decision was purposefully made, as Red Bull is not an automotive manufacturer and has limited production abilities and resources for projects outside of motorsport. However, Horner mentioned that the RB17 could be adapted for road use by conversion houses.
Unlike rival F1 teams Mercedes-AMG and Aston Martin, which have road-legal hypercar projects, Red Bull has no plans to produce more than the confirmed 50 units of the RB17. Horner emphasized that the car is a “halo car” for Red Bull and does not want it to distract from their core competence of building grand prix cars. He also revealed that Red Bull approached Ford about collaborating on the RB17, but it did not fit with Ford’s current lineup.
While Horner did not confirm any plans for the RB17 to race at Le Mans, he did mention the possibility and expressed his interest in seeing the car compete. However, significant modifications would be necessary to meet the World Endurance Championship’s regulations.
As for the owners of the RB17, Horner stated that Red Bull is being selective about who can place a deposit for the car. They do not want the cars to sit in collectors’ museums and will provide owners with a fully bespoke track preparation program, including delivery of the car and a support team to a track of their choosing. Horner hinted that there are some iconic owners on the ownership list, with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay rumored to have placed a deposit.
In conclusion, Red Bull’s RB17 hypercar is a track-exclusive vehicle that represents the culmination of all the positive aspects of Formula 1. While the car is not road-legal, it could potentially be adapted for road use by conversion houses. Red Bull has no plans to produce more than the confirmed 50 units, as the RB17 is intended to be a halo car that complements their expertise in building grand prix cars. The possibility of racing the RB17 at Le Mans has not been ruled out, although significant modifications would be required. The owners of the RB17 will receive a fully bespoke track preparation program and Red Bull is being selective about who can place a deposit for the car.