While the summer break is fast approaching, the Hungarian Grand Prix comes just in the wake of the German Grand Prix, which does not necessarily allow teams to make major changes to their cars.
In this context, Renault will introduce new “small parts” this weekend on the RS18, before bringing greater evolutions on its car after the break for the last quarter of the season.
On the program, Renault is considering introducing a new flat bottom, as well as a new assembly of deflectors, proving once again that the team of the French manufacturer will continue to develop its machine until the last moment this year.
“Our car offers a solid pace. Some of our opponents in the peloton have a slight advantage over open tracks, but we have the upper hand as soon as it becomes more sinuous.” said Bob Bell, director of technology at Renault.
“We have the pace, the reliability and all the necessary skills. It is now a question of combining these three aspects every weekend of the race to reach our goal.
“In this environment, all elements must be brought together. Speed in qualifying is an important thing, but that is not everything.
“We must also have a good car on Sunday, drive well, execute perfectly its strategy and make very good pit stops while still having a clear understanding of the situation. All of these factors are crucial to scoring points and that’s what counts at the end of the weekend.
“We will have evolutions. As we go on two races in a row, there will not be much in Hungary except for small parts. We are working on a new flat bottom and a new deflector assembly for the end of the season.
“We are continuing our efforts to improve the performance of this season’s car, while turning a lot of our attention towards 2019.” added Bell.
Renault confirms Carloz Sainz Jr remains in frame. (Source:www.racefans.com)
Meanwhile, the Renault situation is further complicated by its current driver Carlos Sainz Jr being contractually tied Red Bull team, which is expected to retain Daniel Ricciardo in the coming week.
“One thing that is very public that is holding back a decision is the decision of Ricciardo. I guess with the announcements this weekend from Mercedes I expect some domino effect, and in particular for Ricciardo, so that it clarifies a number of things for us.” said Renault team boss Cyril Abiteboul.
“Carlos is bringing stability, commitment, team spirit, pace, and indeed the fact that he will be a free agent if Red Bull lets its option on him lapse.” added Abiteboul.
