As Adrian Newey immerses himself in his role at Aston Martin, his farewell project with Red Bull is progressing rapidly. Recently, Red Bull Advanced Technologies unveiled new images of the RB17 hypercar, showcasing some significant updates since the hybrid V10 track beast’s public reveal at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Several practical adjustments have been made, such as the introduction of larger, hockey-stick-shaped headlights, exterior mirrors, and a windshield wiper. A fin has emerged from the car’s back, and the numerous vents along the bodywork are now more defined. The version depicted here is slightly larger than the one presented at Goodwood, but it still retains a footprint akin to a modern F1 car, as stated by Top Gear, which also consulted Red Bull Advanced Technologies technical director Rob Gray regarding the updates and Newey’s ongoing engagement.
“Adrian’s permitted [to consult] on the project, and he’s still keen on what’s unfolding,” Gray mentioned. “However, to a degree, we gleaned what we needed from him, we understand how he envisioned the car and he’s always available if we require his input.”
Newey’s 19-year tenure with Red Bull Racing stands among the most fruitful of any F1 designer/team pairing, resulting in seven drivers’ titles, six constructors’ titles, 101 poles, and 118 race victories. To keep their prized asset content, Red Bull permitted Newey to engage in hypercar side endeavors, beginning with the Aston Martin Valkyrie and subsequently with the RB17. Aston’s evolution into an F1 constructor (ironically, the one Newey is now affiliated with) ended its collaboration with Red Bull, and Newey’s participation with the Valkyrie. The design visionary must be experiencing a sense of déjà vu.
Newey was part of every aspect of the RB17’s design, and that involvement seemingly continued beyond the car’s launch. He later opted to relocate the exhaust to the engine cover, a modification that required extra efforts “to prevent components from catching fire,” Gray explained. This exhaust will emit the roar of a custom-built Cosworth V10 that revs to 15,000 rpm and produces 1,000 horsepower by itself. An electric motor contributes another 200 hp while supplying torque fill during gear shifts. It also replaces the reverse gear.
Red Bull is also revealing the interior for the first time, which is refreshingly devoid of touchscreens and haptic controls. The RB17 is designed to compete with F1 cars, where touch controls are non-existent. With its considerable performance capabilities in view, the RB17 is also being developed to meet Le Mans prototype crash standards, Gray informed Top Gear, despite it not being intended for racing. The front-hinged doors are designed to facilitate easier entry and exit compared to the Valkyrie’s gullwing doors.
The initial RB17 prototype is currently under construction, with a public unveiling anticipated this summer. Production of the 50 planned customer vehicles is projected to commence next spring.
All photos credit: Red Bull Advanced Technologies
### Overview of Red Bull’s V10 Hybrid Hypercar Capable of Reaching 15,000 RPM
Red Bull Racing, recognized for its supremacy in Formula 1, has ventured into the hypercar sector with an audacious project: a V10 hybrid hypercar that boasts an incredible capacity to reach 15,000 RPM. This groundbreaking vehicle embodies a blend of state-of-the-art technology, engineering prowess, and the racing heritage that Red Bull has nurtured over the years.
#### Design and Engineering
The design of the Red Bull V10 hybrid hypercar showcases aerodynamic efficiency and high performance. Influenced by F1 car aesthetics, the hypercar features a sleek, low-profile body that reduces drag while amplifying downforce. Cutting-edge materials like carbon fiber and lightweight metals are used to ensure the vehicle remains nimble and responsive.
At the core of the hypercar is a naturally aspirated V10 engine, crafted to deliver high-revving performance. This engine layout is renowned for its smooth power response and thrilling sound, traits that are highly coveted in the hypercar market. Achieving 15,000 RPM is a remarkable milestone, pushing the limits of internal combustion engine capabilities.
#### Hybrid Powertrain
Enhancing the V10 engine is a refined hybrid powertrain that incorporates electric motors. This hybrid setup not only improves overall performance but also enhances efficiency and lowers emissions. The addition of electric motors enables instant torque delivery, providing an extra kick during acceleration and enriching the driving experience.
The hybrid system is engineered to function harmoniously with the V10 engine, allowing the driver to experience the advantages of both worlds: the raw power of a conventional combustion engine and the immediacy of electric drive. The energy recovery systems integrated into the vehicle also draw from F1 technology, capturing kinetic energy during braking and converting it into usable power.
#### Performance and Capabilities
The performance specifications of the Red Bull V10 hybrid hypercar are nothing short of phenomenal. With the ability to reach 15,000 RPM, the engine offers a thrilling power output, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in a matter of seconds. The hypercar is anticipated to include advanced traction and stability control systems, ensuring that its substantial power is effectively managed both on the road and on the track.
Beyond sheer speed, the hypercar is fitted with state-of-the-art suspension and braking systems, informed by Red Bull’s vast motorsport experience. These systems are tailored to provide exceptional handling and cornering performance, enabling drivers to explore the limits of capability with confidence.
#### Technological Innovations
Red Bull’s V10 hybrid hypercar is also expected to feature a range of technological advancements that enhance the driving experience. Progressive telemetry systems will deliver real-time information to the driver, facilitating precise adjustments and performance tracking. Additionally, the vehicle is likely to have an intuitive infotainment system, seamlessly integrating connectivity and entertainment features while maintaining focus on driving.
#### Conclusion
Red Bull’s V10 hybrid hypercar marks a daring progression into the realm of high-performance road vehicles, merging the brand’s racing history with groundbreaking technology. With its ability to achieve 15,000 RPM, this hypercar not only guarantees exhilarating performance but also exemplifies the future of automotive engineering. As the project unfolds, it will be intriguing to observe how Red Bull leverages its F1 expertise to create a road-legal hypercar that redefines the limits of automotive performance.