First of all, he suggested that a name change for the Enstone-based organization will likely occur for the 2011 season of Formula One, be it as a consequence of a potential partnership with Lotus Cars, or as a result of their current association with Genii Capital.
“Name changes are everywhere,” said Ghosn, according to French publication Auto Hebdo. “The key is to preserve the Renault name. Apart from Renault F1, yes, there may be other associated names. We don't want to give the impression that we are an exclusive team. We are now developing our technology with multiple teams.”
Additionally, the Renault CEO admitted that his company's future strategy in what concerns F1 is to become a parts supplier for as many teams as possible, rather that pour more money into an own organization. Translated into English: no more works team, but a parts supplier, somewhat like what Cosworth is doing at the moment.
“What I can tell you is that, increasingly, we will be technology suppliers to many teams that are involved in Formula One,” he added. A few days back, Lotus F1 Racing announced an engine partnership with Renault for the 2011 and 2012 seasons of F1, while Red Bull also extended their engine deal with the French until the end of 2012.
“We are not in F1 to have a particular team but to promote the name and the technology of Renault. We will do whatever is necessary to do so at a lower cost and less investment. We will not put in more resources that is necessary for that purpose. What is important is the expansion of our role as an engine and technology supplier,” concluded Ghosn.
According to a recent report from O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper, Lotus Cars – in case they win the dispute against 1Malaysia F1 Racing Team on using the Team Lotus name in Formula One – is willing to pay Renault around EUR60 million for a 3-year period for using the Lotus name for the current Renault F1 organization.
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