IDC Models builds Red Bull’s X1 Dream Racing Car
Sunday, November 21, 2010 by sms
IDC Models builds Red Bull’s X1 Dream Racing Car
Product: RBX1
Client: Red Bull
Technologies Utilised:
CNC Machining
Stereolithography
Selective Laser Sintering
Vacuum Forming
Drape Moulding
GRP Moulding
Specifications of Model:
Total Length: 4.75m
Total Width: 2.18 m
Height: 0.98m
Wheel Base: 2.9m
Front Track Width: 1.85m
Rear Track Width: 1.78m
IDC Models recently turned a dream into reality for Red Bull Racing by taking the surface data provided by Sony Playstation/Polphony (the GT5 game developers) and turning it into a solid and full-scale model of the X1 car.
The car, which has adopted the name RBX1, was designed by Adrian Newey, Red Bull’s Racing CTO. The car was designed without any restrictions of race regulations, this enabled Newey to have a blank canvas and put all his technical energy into a design that pushes the boundaries of motorsport, with a shape and form that makes history.
IDC Models was challenged with the task to complete the life-size model of the dream car in just six weeks. Using data supplied by Polyphony in Japan, the model has been assembled in sections to its full size of 4.75 meters long by 2.2 meters wide. Each model section was CNC machined and then fitted together and finished to give a seamless surface finish.
IDC Models was selected for its outstanding model making reputation combined with its facilities and flexibilities. IDC Models is one of only a few rapid prototyping bureaux in the UK with large-scale CNC facilities.
“Building this model was a fantastic challenge in so many ways. To build a car of this size and detail from scratch in just six weeks required all our model making techniques and rapid prototyping technologies,” says Head of IDC Models, Vincent O’Horo. “After all the long hours and intense effort, the whole team is immensely proud of this amazing achievement and our involvement in such a exciting project for Red Bull.”
The concept car design has already been put to the test by Red Bull F1 star, Sebastian Vettel. He took a seat as a virtual test driver in the X1 prototype and raced around Suzuka in Japan. On his first virtual lap, Vettel beat the lap record by more than 20 seconds.
“Adrian’s dream car handled brilliantly,” said Vettel. “There are few tracks that reward bravery and commitment more than Suzuka and I can’t think of a better way to experience the pace and performance of the X1 prototype than going though 130R at full throttle.”
Having already appeared in Evo Magazine, the X1 prototype will be unveiled at the Sony Playstation GT5 launch in Madrid in November.
IDC Models is a division of Industrial Design Consultancy – an international product design and development company. For more information
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