Renault has unveiled its vision for the future of Formula 1 at the 2017 Shanghai Motorshow. The R.S. 2027 Vision is the result of Renault’s 40 years of experience in the sport, and features a number of unique styling and performance attributes to really move the sport on from its current format.
Renault’s vision is built around the idea of a more ‘human-centric’ championship, with drivers at the heart of the sport illustrated by the car’s transparent cockpit, paired with a transparent helmet that ‘allows the drivers to be seen in the heat of the action’.
The exterior of the car has been designed to deliver a more ‘spectacular’ show, with active LED lighting incorporated into the wheels, relaying information to race fans such as race number and position, and active aerodynamic parts. The car has also been designed to encourage safer racing thanks to an autonomous mode that can be activated when behind the safety car, along with an ultra-resistant polycarbonate cockpit canopy to protect against impact.
More extensive interaction between the cars and greater connection with spectators. Fans will be able to view the telemetry data of their favourite driver for example.
Renault also promises that the car will deliver ‘ultra-high-performance racing’, which is the result of the car weighing just 600kg, and developing a power output in the region of 1340hp. The car is said to be powered by a small internal combustion engine, boosted by a similar, but much larger high-density battery system almost five times as powerful as those currently used. This is then transferred through a four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering system.
Said to be an environmentally-respectful form of Formula 1, the car features a fuel tank capacity halved from current cars and a full-electric mode for use along the pit lane.
“One role of Renault Sport Racing is to anticipate the future of Formula 1 so that it draws a maximum number of fans in an environment consistent with Groupe Renault’s objectives,” explained Cyril Abiteboul, managing director, Renault Sport Racing. “We look forward to generating inspired conversations with the racing community, fans and enthusiasts through this concept that highlights our ideas and desires.”
