Renault's new F1 racerposted in F131 | 01 | 2011

RENAULT LIFTED the wraps off its 2011 challenger on the eve of the opening three-day Formula One test in Valencia. The new R31 — the fourth '11 F1 racer to be unveiled this week — carries black and gold livery following its deal with Lotus Group, and was revealed in the Spanish pitlane.

“For Genii Capital and Lotus Renault GP, the 2011 season will be the one in which we achieve our aims,” said chairman Gerard Lopez. “We now have 100% ownership of the team, and we’re tackling the coming championship with the intention of continuing to do things our way – but always with humility.

"I would like to welcome Lotus Cars, a new ambitious title sponsor with us for the long term. Renault and Total have also chosen to accompany us again in this adventure and we thank them for their valuable contribution.

"Our aim for 2011 is to continue our march towards the front of the grid, seize the slightest opportunity and do better than last season in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships. We feel we are well prepared for the challenge ahead.” The car was also welcomed by the two drivers, Robert Kubica and Vitaly Petrov.

“After a long winter break you always feel ready to jump back in the car,” Kubica explained. “At the moment it’s difficult to know just how competitive our package will be, but the engineers have decided to go for an innovative design, which is good.”

Vitaly added: “It feels exciting to be starting my second year of Formula 1 and I can’t wait to try this beautiful car for the first time tomorrow. Now that I have a year of F1 experience behind me, I feel more confident and ready to deliver. I’m determined to do well and fight hard for this team.”

The team also revealed that former HRT driver Bruno Senna will join Romain Grosjean, Jan Charouz, Ho-Ping Tung and Fairuz Fauzy as part of the team's test and reserve driving strength.

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Jim McGill