F1 News: Red Bull Confirms State-Of-The-Art Wind Tunnel Set For 2026 Launch
Red Bull has confirmed the new, state-of-the-art wind tunnel, is scheduled to be operational by 2026. This move marks a significant upgrade from their current facility in Bedford, a former Cold War-era structure with modern limitations.
Key Takeaways:
- New Wind Tunnel for 2027: Red Bull will begin construction of their new wind tunnel in 2024, part of the Milton Keynes complex, aiming for use in developing their 2027 F1 car.
- Current Facility's Historical Significance: The team's existing wind tunnel, previously owned by the National Aeronautical Establishment, has a rich history, including roles in Concorde development and military projects. Acquired from Jaguar during the Red Bull buyout in 2004, it's now considered outdated.
- Challenges and Strategic Use: Despite facing restrictions due to budget cap infringements, Red Bull has managed to utilise their current wind tunnel effectively. Team Principal Christian Horner highlights the need for strategic development choices, especially given the tunnel's inefficiencies in colder weather.
Red Bull Content Pool
Red Bull's decision to build a new wind tunnel aligns with the evolving landscape of Formula 1 technology. Their current wind tunnel in Bedford, once a pinnacle of aerodynamic testing, has become a relic of the past. It was initially owned by the National Aeronautical Establishment, playing a crucial role in the development of the iconic Concorde and various military projects. Before Red Bull's acquisition in 2004, it served the Arrows F1 team and Jaguar.
Team principal Christian Horner emphasised the necessity of this upgrade, as quoted by PitPass:
"With wind tunnels being a thing of the future by all accounts, we've had to go with the times and invest in a new wind tunnel.
"Construction will start during the course of 2024,"
Horner clarified that construction will start in 2024, but the new facility won't be used for the 2026 contender due to the planned overhaul of F1 regulations.
The transition from the old to the new presents its challenges, though. Horner continued:
"You don't want to introduce it in-season, you have to nominate a tunnel for the year, so it will be probably to do the '27 car in."
The current wind tunnel, described by Horner as a "Cold War relic," poses limitations, particularly in colder conditions. Despite these constraints and a reduced development allowance due to budget cap penalties, the team has managed to be highly selective and efficient in its aerodynamic development.