14 juillet 2014
Renault Sport further strengthens the World Series by Renault and the Formula Renault 3.5
In the genes of the brand since 1898, motor racing has been one of the fundamental elements of Renault’s strategy. The World Series by Renault has been one of the best examples : hosting between 400,000 – 500,000 spectators per year and benefiting from vast media exposure, the World Series by Renault is one of the most important motor racing events and remains loyal to its motto ”Fast, Free and Fun”.
Facing the difficulties the drivers experienced in finding the budget during the world-wide economic crisis, which has affected the teams in all automobile racing series, including the highest level of the sport, Renault Sport reacted to further reinforce the performance/cost ratio of its premier series.
A working group established at the beginning of the season between Renault Sport, the teams and technical partners allowed for consolidating an action plan for the 2015 season.
Among the major decisions, it was decided to prolong the life cycle of the Formula Renault 3.5 for a minimum of two years, until the end of 2016. Renault Sport and its partners defined the technical modifications aiming to improve sustainability and also worked on the costs of replacement parts, as well as the longevity of the engine and gearbox in order to reduce the re-build intervals.
The measures thus decided by Renault Sport will reduce the cost of a season by at least 10% and as much as 15-20% depending on the structure costs of each team. The teams have already anticipated these costs reductions in their discussions with the drivers for 2015.
Patrice Ratti, President of Renault Sport Technologies : ”The motor racing economic context is difficult. At the beginning of the season we created a working group with the Formula Renault teams. Together we have decided to prolong the current version of the Formula Renault 3.5 for two seasons and have renewed our contracts with our major partners for several years. We have also decided on a large number of competitiveness improvements, either by cost reduction of replacement parts, or by extending the life span thanks to the in-depth work of our engineers and technical partners. This will allow the teams to reduce their costs by at least 10%, which they have already anticipated in their discussions with their drivers for 2015. I am very satisfied not only with the results, but also the constructive and creative spirit that has led the working group and which has contributed to reinforce the links between Renault Sport and the teams. With the introduction of the Renault Sport Trophy in 2015, everything is in place to assure a glorious future for the World Series by Renault."
