en.Wedoany.com Reported - The 4.5-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine powering the Red Bull RB17 track hypercar was specifically developed by Cosworth. This engine can rev up to 15,000 rpm and delivers 1,200 horsepower. Chris Willoughby, Commercial Director of Cosworth, revealed in an interview at the Goodwood Festival of Speed that the team evaluated all possible powertrain options, including V6 turbocharged and V12 engines, before selecting the V10 configuration.
Red Bull Advanced Technologies led the project. Unconstrained by road car emission regulations or racing technical rules, the engineering team enjoyed complete design freedom. Willoughby noted that this freedom actually posed a challenge at the decision-making level, as there was no regulatory framework to guide their thinking. Consequently, the team conducted a detailed analysis of various engine configurations.
After testing and adjustments, the naturally aspirated V10 provided the best balance between performance, throttle response, and sensory experience. Willoughby pointed out that while turbocharged engines can generate significant power, their torque delivery is less direct and lacks the immediate response of a naturally aspirated engine. Additionally, the V10's sound characteristics were a key factor in the selection process.
Unlike historic F1 engines that revved beyond 20,000 rpm, the RB17's engine needs to ensure stable operation on the track for customers. To achieve this, Cosworth employed pneumatic valve spring technology, enabling the engine to exceed 15,000 rpm. At the same time, the engine's design emphasizes ease of use, allowing it to be started and operated without requiring a team of specialist engineers. The engineering team redesigned piston clearances and cold-start behavior to balance high-revving limits with everyday usability.
In terms of durability, Cosworth set a target service life of several thousand kilometers for the engine, contrasting with older F1 engines designed to last only a few hundred kilometers. Key aspects such as the engine's cooling system and chassis integration were collaboratively developed by Red Bull and Cosworth, requiring continuous coordination over the limited space within the vehicle.
Willoughby stated that the team has pushed material selection and weight control to the extreme, leaving virtually no regrets. He hopes that the most impressive feedback from future drivers will be the ease with which the car can be driven.
