Renault V8 Helps Increase F1 Downforce

Although their Formula 1-prepared V8s are certainly no match to Ferrari and Mercedes when it comes to power, Renault can easily brag that its units have more to gain than its rivals in the new aerodynamic era of the series.

According to a statement released by Renault Sport F1 this week, the V8s supplied by the French marque have burnt 10 per cent more fuel than normal in the Australian Grand Prix two weekends ago. Corroborated with the fact that the RS27 units are well-placed in the area of fuel consumption, it means that drivers running on Renault powerplants can run for longer at full power during the Sunday action.

Full power leads to more exhaust flow for the blown diffuser, which in the ends secures higher downforce.

Blown diffusers have become an important element of Formula 1 racing nowadays, with every team of designers and engineers out there searching continuously for means to secure more downforce for their racers. As exhaust gases travel more rapidly through the diffuser in corners, downforce is increased and leads to higher speeds.

Following their complete exit from the series at the end of last year, Renault is currently supplying engines to 3 teams in Formula 1, namely Lotus Renault GP, Team Lotus and Red Bull Racing.

“Renault remained in F1 to show its technical capabilities and high level of performance and this result completely justifies the board's decision,” said Renault Sport F1 managing director Jean-Francois Caubet in the aforementioned statement.