cars news 10: We Hear: Aston Martin Red Bull Hypercar Will Have Hybrid Power

A report from ESPN uncovered new details about the AM-RB 001, the upcoming hypercar being developed by Aston Martin and Red Bull Racing.

The details come from new career opportunities published on Red Bull Racing’s website. Among the long list of advertised positions are mechanical design engineers who specialize in hybrid drivetrain integration, which is an unofficial confirmation that the AM-RB 001 will feature a hybridized system. Last month we interviewed Adrian Newey, Red Bull Racing’s chief technical officer, who stated he hadn’t reached a decision on a hybrid powertrain. “It’s fair to say hybrids offer a lot of opportunities,” he told us in July. “We haven’t decided. I have a personal favorite I can’t talk about.”

The job posting also lists opportunities for engineers who specialize in semi-active suspensions and structural engineers experienced in composite materials.

While other important details still need to be revealed, rumors suggest the powertrain will include a naturally aspirated V-12. Despite the big engine, the team has set a power-to-weight ratio of 1 hp for each 2.2 pounds. That suggests a curb weight of around 2,200-2,400 pounds and a power output of at least 1,000 hp. Achieving the low curb weight will necessitate generous use of carbon fiber and other lightweight materials.

As previously reported, the AM-RB 001 will be a street-legal hypercar built to achieve F1 levels of performance. Rumors suggest the AM-RB 001 will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds and should achieve lateral g-forces exceeding 2.0 g. The low-production hypercar could arrive as soon as the end of 2018, with pricing expected to exceed $3 million.

Source: ESPN