RB14
The Red Bull Racing RB14, designed by Adrian Newey for 2018 Formula One World Championship representing transitional season before Honda partnership, features mid-mounted Renault R.E.18 1.6-liter turbocharged 90-degree V6 hybrid power unit branded as TAG Heuer producing approximately 900 horsepower combined with MGU-K and MGU-H energy recovery systems, paired with eight-speed seamless-shift sequential gearbox. Significant technical regulation changes introduced mandatory halo cockpit protection device creating aerodynamic challenges, prohibition of controversial shark fin engine covers and T-wing devices altering rear bodywork philosophy, and continued wide-track dimensions maintaining 2017-era downforce levels enabling minimum 733 kg weight meeting FIA specifications.
The RB14 represents Red Bull competitive development achieving four race victories with Daniel Ricciardo winning Chinese and Monaco Grands Prix plus Max Verstappen securing victories at Austrian and Mexican Grands Prix, ultimately finishing third in Constructors Championship. Final season utilizing Renault customer power unit before strategic Honda partnership switch highlighted ongoing engine performance deficit versus Mercedes and Ferrari factory teams affecting championship competitiveness despite superior Newey aerodynamic package creating exceptional cornering capability. Advanced chassis construction features carbon fiber monocoque with integrated halo protection creating distinctive RB14 frontal appearance, ZF Sachs dampers with inboard springs actuated by front push-rods and rear pull-rods, and Brembo carbon-ceramic braking system. Aerodynamic development featured aggressive bargeboard complexity maximizing outwash philosophy, sculpted engine cover absent shark fin creating cleaner rear-end appearance, and sophisticated front wing designs incorporating multiple cascades and flaps optimizing flow management. The RB14 established foundation for subsequent Honda partnership representing Newey final Renault-powered design before 2019 transition creating championship-winning platform throughout 2021-2023 seasons demonstrating Red Bull Racing engineering excellence combining superior chassis dynamics with improving power unit performance throughout hybrid era development representing crucial stepping stone toward dominant 2021+ era establishing Red Bull Racing as preeminent Formula One constructor following Mercedes sustained success throughout 2014-2020 period.