What is your first thought when you think of Red Bull? Most of us immediately think of the tall silver-and-blue can, the famous tagline, “Red Bull gives you wings,” and, of course, the logo, which features two flaming red bulls charging at each other in front of a golden circle. Doesn’t it feel strong, bold, and energising? What most people don’t realise, though, is that the animals on the can aren’t actually bulls. They are gaurs, also known as Indian bison.
The Hidden Animal Behind The Logo
Although the concept originated in Thailand, Red Bull made its debut in Austria in the 1980s. The beverage drew inspiration from Krating Daeng, a Thai energy drink made by Chaleo Yoovidhya, a businessman. “Daeng” means red in Thai, and “Krating” means gaur. This original name literally translated to “Red Gaur.” Dietrich Mateschitz, an Austrian businessman, discovered this beverage in Thailand and decided to bring it to Europe. He modified its flavour for international markets and rebranded it as Red Bull.
But here’s the important part: he didn’t change the logo. He kept the same fierce image of two animals charging at each other. And those animals weren’t Spanish fighting bulls or American bison. They were gaurs, a species found in the forests of India and Southeast Asia.
Meet The Gaur: The Real ‘Red Bull’
But first, what is a gaur? Imagine a bull that is even bigger than the largest and strongest one you have ever seen. The gaur is known for its strength and endurance, and it is the largest wild bovine in the world. If Red Bull wanted an animal to represent energy, strength, and fearlessness, there really isn’t a better choice.
The image of two red gaurs facing each other in the logo perfectly captures the promises of the drink. Energy. Endurance. Strength. The sun, a universal symbol of vitality and life force, is represented by the golden circle behind them. The logo undoubtedly conveys the message that “drink this, and you’ll feel unstoppable.” The gaur-inspired design has stayed exactly the same for nearly four decades. That’s how strong the original idea was.
So, the next time you grab a can of Red Bull, look closely at those two “bulls” on the logo. Now you know they’re not just any bulls; they’re gaurs, the mighty Indian bison. Doesn’t the logo feel suddenly more meaningful now?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva/Jan Kopřiva
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