Renault could increase its involvement in F1

Sunday morning, Renault Sport announced that an agreement had been reached with the soon-to-be double world champion team, Red Bull Racing, for the supply of engine blocks until 2016. This news, of course, delighted the staff of the diamond brand, starting with Rémi Taffin, whose exclusive interview you could find on *MotorsInside*.

Other Renault officials were keen to express their satisfaction, starting with Jean-François Caubet, General Manager of Renault Sport F1: « This is excellent news for Renault for three reasons. First, it’s proof that we are committed to a long-term strategy. The fact that we signed for 5 years with Red Bull Racing reinforces the validity of our decision to adopt an engine manufacturer policy. Additionally, the results are good and support our commitment. Second, we genuinely believe in the technology chosen for the future of Formula 1. To develop this turbo V6 and its electrical system, we need to work with a top team. We are comfortable with the turbo V6 aspect. But to perfectly integrate the electrical system into the car, we are convinced that it is necessary to work with a team of Red Bull’s caliber. Finally, the third reason: being able to build the future over 5 years, whereas in F1 the long term is usually 2 years, is a reassuring approach to the future! »

An enthusiasm shared by Carlos Tavares, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Operations at RSF1: « It represents a commitment that I would describe as deep and stable. […] Through this close collaboration, we are committed not only to remaining the best engine on the grid but also to enabling the chassis, through its qualities, to become the best in terms of aerodynamics ».”

Currently an engine supplier for three teams, Red Bull, Lotus Renault GP, and Team Lotus, the French firm has already signed an agreement to supply engines to the Williams team starting next season. “We have refocused on engine supply. […] If there is one thing I am trying to do with our teams at Renault, it is to limit the number of priorities, to refocus on the essentials. […] I think we are doing it very well, the results speak for themselves. That we have 4 teams approaching us for engine supply and that we have the capacity to provide them, I find that very positive,” Carlos Tavares emphasizes.

Four teams in 2012, however, the door is not closed to additional clients. Tavares sees it as a way to achieve economies of scale, but also to strengthen Renault’s power: « If there were to be more partners, I would not oppose it. As we sell our engines, we dilute our costs. I believe it is also important for Renault to have a significant influence so that our voice is heard ». Jean-François Caubet sees no objection: « Yes, we are at 4 teams… we will see what the future holds for us (laughs). Some will want to develop their own electric machine or their batteries specifically, but we will sell the same engine to everyone. I am convinced that we will not only have 4 satisfied clients, but I also think other teams will be interested ».

Negotiations are reportedly underway with HRT for Renault Sport F1 to provide technical support to the small Spanish team over the next two seasons. However, it is unknown if this collaboration could lead to Renault supplying engines to Hispania starting in 2013, at the end of their contract with Cosworth, although the team’s director, Luis Perez Sala, has admitted that negotiations are ongoing with another supplier.