RB, previously known as AlphaTauri, has revealed its new Formula 1 car for the 2024 season in Las Vegas. The car showcases a striking blue and white livery with hints of black, reflecting the team’s fresh colors and identity. The unveiling event was attended by notable figures such as Visa Cash App CEO Peter Bayer, RB CEO and team principal Laurent Mekies, and drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda. Alongside Visa and Cash App, the car boasts a range of new sponsors, including Orlen, which has transitioned from Alfa Romeo. Additionally, luxury watchmaker Tudor has secured its first-ever sponsorship deal in Formula 1.
The livery of the car, combining blue, black, and white, is truly captivating. The arrangement of colors brings to mind the iconic Williams Renault car driven by Jaques Villeneuve in 1997, which is widely regarded as one of the most visually appealing cars in F1 history. The design team behind RB’s new car has demonstrated great skill, particularly in the effective coordination of white, red, and blue accents.
In terms of technology, the VCARB 01 draws inspiration from its Red Bull counterpart, utilizing the rear suspension from the previous year while adopting a pull-rod front suspension. Although elements from last year’s AlphaTauri AT04 can still be observed, the car features distinct sidepod inlets.
When asked about expectations for the upcoming season, Daniel Ricciardo expressed a balanced perspective. While aiming high, he emphasized the importance of remaining realistic to avoid disappointment. He believes that achieving top-five finishes should be a target, which could potentially lead to podium placements. Ricciardo acknowledged the team’s progress from the previous season and expressed optimism for further improvement. He also speculated that top-five results could be within reach, even in the early stages of the season.
While it remains to be seen whether the team will achieve top-five results, the new RB car appears to be a significant upgrade compared to last year’s AlphaTauri AT04. The AT04 concluded the season with a mere 25 points, falling just three points short of seventh-place Williams-Mercedes.
According to the Source autoevolution.com