Renault's works team is eyeing a sudden leap into Q3 this weekend in Monaco. After the eleventh-hour Lotus takeover, it has been an uncompetitive full works return for the French marque in 2016 so far.
But there are now signs of clear progress. This weekend, two versions of the Canada-spec engine upgrade, featuring 35 additional horse power, have been released for the works team and customer Red Bull. Auto Motor und Sport reports that, at the yellow-coloured team, it is Kevin Magnussen who will get the new engine spec, as he has scored all 6 of Renault's points so far this season.
Not only that, the German source also said Renault's chassis has all-new front suspension and improved cooling for Monaco, adding up to a pace boost of six tenths. "If everything goes well, we could maybe even get a car into Q3," said trackside chief Alan Permane. (GMM)
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Bahrain International Circuit - Winter testing
Replies (4)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Sounds promising, but they'll have a hard time getting past the others. I actually think Force India will have a hard time this week, their car is less adapted to tracks like these. Same could apply for Williams (but I still think they'll be within Q3).
Vet5
Posts: 225
definitely sounds good, but they have said it themselves, they need to start working on Aero. Atleast they didn't come in like McLaren and say they are in it to win it, they have been honest from the start and said it will be a transitional period, very respectful team this year!
mclarenfan1968
Posts: 1,027
Good for Renault I guess IF they can match the big claims, talking doesn't do much.
Meanwhile here's hoping for a two car merc mating pileup with diva girls watching the race from their yachts. We don't need them around to spoil a good race, they perform better with handbags.
khasmir
Posts: 893
That means beating Merc, Ferrari, RB, Williams, TR and/or McLaren. All of which have a better chassis at a track where engine power is less important.
No Q3 for Renault, pretty sure of that.