Renault Unveil New R29 for 2009

Renault have unveiled their brand new 2009 challenger earlier today, at the Portimao circuit in Portugal. The new Renault R29 car features a completely new aerodynamics package, with the now-famous narrow rear wing and wide front wing. Also, the R29 has a wider nose, aimed to improve airflow and make it easier for the driver – while trailing somebody – to try an overtaking maneuver.

As far as the livery of the new Renault is concerned, the R29 features a lot more yellow as compared to its predecessor – most of it being situated at the rear section of the car. Also, the logo of new oil supplier Total can be seen on both front and rear wings of the car.

Renault opted for a low-key unveiling of their 2009-spec car in an effort to reduce costs down to minimum ahead of the team's new F1 campaign. The new car is expected to hit the track as early as next week, at Algarve, with both Fernando Alonso and Nelsinho Piquet preparing to get the grips on the new model.

While introducing the new car to the media, Flavio Briatore's team also confirmed its complete lineup for the new season. As Alonso and Piquet were already named as racing drivers for 2009, Renault have decided to stick with Romain Grosjean as test driver for their upcoming campaign.

The Frenchman was test & reserve driver for the Enstone-based team in 2008 also, but he had little mileage last year as compared to second test driver Lucas di Grassi. For the new season, though, the Frenchman looks set to improve his testing experience, while also competing in the GP2 Series for the second year running.