Red Bull Reveals RB9 for 2013 Formula 1 Season
Red Bull Racing has launched its RB9 challenger for the 2013 Formula 1 season, aiming to defend both drivers’ and constructors’ titles with Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber.
Red Bull Racing has taken the covers off its 2013 Formula 1 car, the RB9, at the team’s Milton Keynes headquarters ahead of the new season. The reigning champions are targeting a fourth consecutive double title, with Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber once again driving.
The RB9 continues the evolution of Red Bull’s successful platform, following three straight years of championship-winning machinery. With technical regulations largely unchanged for 2013, Adrian Newey and his design group focused on refining details rather than introducing radical concepts. Suspension geometry and packaging have seen attention, with the rear of the car appearing more compact than its predecessor.
Red Bull remains partnered with Renault for its engine supply, running the RS27 2.4-litre V8. The team’s KERS system is again integrated, while aerodynamic tweaks are evident around the sidepods and rear wing. The RB9 also debuts a revised livery, with a prominent purple shade on the sidepods and increased Infiniti branding reflecting the title sponsor’s growing presence.
Technical focus for 2013
With only minor rule changes for 2013, most teams, including Red Bull, have concentrated on optimising suspension and improving reliability. The RB9’s compact rear end is designed to enhance airflow to the diffuser, a key area for downforce generation. Red Bull’s previous car, the RB8, was already seen as the class of the field in terms of aerodynamics, so further gains are likely to be incremental.
Adrian Newey acknowledged at the end of 2012 that making significant improvements would be difficult, given the stability of the rules since 2009. The team’s approach reflects confidence in its existing strengths, while seeking marginal gains that could prove decisive in a closely-matched grid.
Drivers and expectations
Sebastian Vettel returns as the youngest triple world champion in Formula 1 history, having narrowly beaten Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso in 2012. Mark Webber remains as his team-mate for a seventh season. Both drivers have stressed that past success will not guarantee results in 2013, with the team expecting a tough campaign against rivals from Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes.
Red Bull’s technical partnership with Renault continues to be a key element, with the French manufacturer’s engine reliability and performance underpinning the team’s recent dominance. The increased Infiniti branding underlines the commercial relationship between Red Bull and the Nissan-owned luxury marque.
Visual changes and sponsorship
The RB9’s new paint scheme is the most visible change, with a purple hue now prominent alongside the traditional dark blue and red. Infiniti’s name appears on the sidepods and rear wing, reflecting its expanded role as title sponsor. The car’s launch comes as Red Bull seeks to maintain its position at the front of Formula 1’s competitive order.
Red Bull’s 2013 challenger will be closely scrutinised during pre-season testing, with rivals eager to see whether the team’s evolutionary approach can deliver a fourth straight championship. The first public running for the RB9 is set for Jerez, where the car will join the rest of the grid for the opening test sessions.
- RB9 features revised rear packaging for improved aerodynamics
- Infiniti branding now more prominent on livery
- Renault RS27 V8 engine continues as power unit
