Lotus Might Sign Renault Engine Deal Soon

Lotus F1 Team seems committed to make all the necessary steps to become a well established team of Formula One, and not just another squad struggling to cross the finish line of each grand prix two or three laps down. And the first move might be switching the engine supplier for the 2011 season.

According to a report appeared in Italia Racing, the representatives of the Malaysian backed organization are currently in talks with Renault for the supply of F1 powerplants next year. Lotus F1 Team is currently using Cosworth units, but their deal with the British engine manufacturer has not yet been extended.

Renault have announced for quite some time that they are willing to supply more than just 2 teams with their engines – Renault F1 and Red Bull Racing – with engine technical director Rob White reiterating those plans last week.

“We have the capacity to supply additional teams in the future and would be willing to do so if it was good for Renault and for the sport as a whole. There has been speculation in the press, with different teams mentioned from time to time, but no announcement is imminent,” said White, according to the GMM news agency. A decision on this is expected to be made in two weeks time.

Lotus have not been the only team talking to Renault for a future engine supply, Williams F1 Team also being involved. However, recent reports have suggested that Frank Williams is likely to continue his partnership with the British company for 2011.

Like Williams, Lotus too was a partner of Renault in Formula One in past, with the original Lotus outfit using the the French powerplants from 1983 and 1986.