In 2022, Red Bull made an announcement about a new project for a high-performance car, known as the RB17. This project is being managed by the Advanced Technologies division of Red Bull, with Newey leading the process of creating the design.
The RB17 will be equipped with a V8 Hybrid engine that can generate more than 1,100bhp. The production of this car will be limited to 50 units, and the starting price will be £5-Million.
Originally, the name RB17 was intended for Red Bull’s Formula 1 car in 2021 (RB16 was used for the 2020 car). However, Max Verstappen ended up racing with a car called the RB16B and won his first championship title that year.
Newey explained the reason behind this decision during an episode of the Talking Bulls podcast. He stated, “The reason we didn’t use RB17 for the 2021 F1 car was because of Covid. The RB16 was the car we used in 2020, and it was supposed to be replaced by RB17 for the 2021 season. However, due to the impact of Covid, the regulations changed.”
He further elaborated, “We had to modify the 2020 car for the 2021 season, so the RB17 Formula 1 car was never actually built. When we designed the car for 2022, we named it RB18. Therefore, the number 17 was always missing.”
Newey also shared his thoughts on the development progress of the RB17. He mentioned, “The first significant milestone will be when people get to see photographs of the model. We have already created a full-scale model, but we are not ready to release it just yet. We will do so at some point during the summer.”
He added, “The specifications for the car have been finalized, and we have completed all the necessary evaluations. We are now in the process of issuing drawings and manufacturing the parts. Rig testing is also underway. Overall, the project is progressing well.”
When asked to compare a Formula 1 project with a hypercar project, Newey highlighted the similarities in design philosophy and the overall approach to research, design, manufacturing, and development. The main difference lies in how these principles are applied to each specific project.