| Join | Shop | Parts | Events | News | Magazine | Contact | Sections | Forum | Advertise | Members Site |Diamond Anniversary | |  
 |
 |
|
| Join | Shop | Parts | Events | News | Magazine | Contact | Sections | Forum | Advertise | Members Site |Diamond Anniversary | |
|
|
|
|
Renault NewsLatest! Updated news articles will be placed at the top. Also see the CLUB NEWS, EVENTS and MEMBERSONLY for even more news. MONDAY 22ND AUGUST 2011
THOUSANDS FLOCK TO SILVERSTONE FOR WORLD SERIES BY RENAULT A stunning 120,000 people flocked to the Silverstone Grand Prix circuit on 20th/21st August to enjoy a exhilarating weekend of free motorsport action as the World Series by Renault returned to the renowned venue. Motorsport fans from across the country passed through Silverstone's gates for the two-day event, including 75,000 on Sunday alone, firmly placing World Series by Renault as the UK's second largest motorsport meeting behind the British Grand Prix. World Series by Renault, making its fourth visit to the Northamptonshire circuit, treated visitors to some of the best international and national racing plus high-speed, tyre-smoking demonstrations from the Lotus Renault F1 Grand Prix car with Romain Grosjean and Jan Charouz as well as a host of family entertainment and off-track activities. In addition, the free event gave open paddock access to the fans, including a pit lane walkabout, enabling them to get up close to the teams and drivers competing on the 3.67-mile circuit. Family fun In between the action-packed racing, thousands of spectators took advantage of the free off-track entertainment. Realistic driving simulators allowed visitors to test their own skills. Youngsters were kept entertained with special play areas which included inflatables, dodgems and a carousel as mums and dads admired the entire Renault range of cars, vans and trucks. Hundreds of guests took test drives in the Clio Renaultsport 200 and Megane Renaultsport 250 on a special test track while visitors could also experience first-hand how Renault's safety features operate in an exhilarating passenger ride. On track, top international and national racing action filled much of the programme with the headline Formula Renault 3.5 Series. With two pole positions and two race wins, Carlin's Robert Wickens enjoyed the perfect weekend. The Canadian's double success means he leaves the UK with a solid lead at the top of the Formula Renault 3.5 Series championship standings. It also secures a first Team title for Carlin boss Trevor Carlin and his UK team : a victory they fittingly celebrated on home soil. The Eurocup Megane Trophy also thrilled crowds with fantastic wheel-to-wheel racing. After securing a tenth pole position and a ninth victory of the season, Stefano Comini was duly reward by winning the Eurocup Megane Trophy 2011 title at Silverstone. The success is made all the more remarkable by the fact that there are still four races of the season remaining. The Formula Renault UK Championship enjoyed two action-packed races over the weekend. For the national-level drivers in the series it was a rare opportunity to compete on the esteemed Silverstone Grand Prix circuit and in front of packed grandstands. Alex Lynn took both wins in the Formula Renault UK: which boasts Kimi Räikkönen and Lewis Hamilton among its former champions. Renault's illustrious past... Renault's proud motorsport heritage was celebrated by a crowd-pleasing display from rally legend Jean Ragnotti at the wheel of his formidable 350bhp Renault 5 Maxi Turbo. This was complemented by a display of 200 classic and competition Renaults from the owner's clubs including a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the R4. Commenting on the weekend, Renault UK Managing Director, Thierry Sybord, said, 'Renault has a long and celebrated tradition of motorsport of which we are extremely proud and we've once again been able to showcase this through the World Series by Renault. Spectators have been treated to a free weekend of tremendous racing and entertainment.'
MONDAY 15TH AUGUST 2011 QUALITY THROUGH AND THROUGH: RENAULT UPS THE ANTE
Renault has made no qualms about its relentless pursuit of quality in recent years, for both product and service. Indeed, quality is at the very heart of its business, as emphasised by Chairman and CEO, Carlos Ghosn, speaking at the launch of Renault Commitment 2009, when he stated that the objective for the next-generation Laguna would be top three in its class for quality, including premium brands. In its new strategic plan, Renault Drive the Change 2016, quality remains a priority and is one of the three pillars among Design and Innovation in the strengthening of Renault's brand image. The French marque also now includes a 'Renault Quality Made'stamp on all of its communications to emphasise this key focus. Renault's product quality is improving consistently - fact In the last few years, Renault has boosted the quality of its products significantly. In fact, results from third-party organisations such as Auto Express and Which?, speak for themselves. Renault has publicly acknowledged the electronic issues which affected some of its older models, including the second-generation Megane and Laguna, principally concerning certain electric window mechanisms and early- generation electronic instrument displays. However, it has not shied away from the issues and implemented an extensive customer goodwill programme to cover such concerns. Now in the last couple of years, the positive quality trend which Renault has seen for itself from internal data, including its greater standing versus its rivals, has begun to be mirrored by the results in independent surveys. The most recent UK independent study, the Which? car survey 2011, shows no less than four current Renault models in the top five in their classes for reliability: Clio, Grand Modus, Megane and Scenic. On top of that, the current Scenic sits proudly in fourth for MPV overall customer satisfaction, with its compact MPV sibling, Grand Modus not too far behind in sixth. The UK's largest and arguably most influential consumer organisation also now highlights Clio, Megane, Scenic and Laguna all as 'Worth a look'. Rounding off the plaudits, the consumer champions testify, 'Renault's drive to improve quality seems to be paying dividends, as reliability is much improved.' But we're not just talking about one isolated study. In the last two years alone, Renault has risen significantly in successive Driver Power surveys from Auto Express too. Previously sat towards the bottom of the table for its products, its sterling efforts saw it rise an impressive seven places in 2010 out of 35 brands, then built on the progress again this year by a further three places. As the real-world experiences of its customers owning the latest Renault models continues to filter through, the French marque is expecting its standing to rise even further in the coming years. Quality matters - for service, as well as product 'Today, quality of service is one of the elements of competition; in the future, this will be the main element of competition.' Carlos Ghosn, February 2009. As well as making great strides in product quality, the French marque is going the extra mile with its dealer network. As a result, Renault has put into place a series of initiatives in this country to achieve one simple, but nevertheless often difficult, objective: improve customer satisfaction. The result of this is evident in the impressive rise of 16 places for dealer satisfaction seen in the last two Auto Express Driver Power surveys. Its latest action, an internet-based dealer rating system, to be introduced in September 2011, is arguably its most ambitious yet. Located on www.renault.co.uk, and similar in spirit to other successful review sites, it will communicate the individual satisfaction ratings of each of the approximate 4,500 Renault customers interviewed each month. The satisfaction rating, together with the actual customer verbatim, will be available to view for both sales and service customers for each of Renault UK's dealerships. Another wide-reaching programme is the dealership improvement programme, which concentrates on enhancing the performance of the least performing 20% of its UK dealers, with the objective of improving customer experience within the dealership. With each dealership, Performance Managers with broad experience of the automotive business, go into the business to diagnose why it is not providing the levels of experience required by Renault customers. Proudly, and no doubt one of the reasons behind the French marque's climb in recent customer survey dealer rankings, is its success rate of over three-quarters for dealers who enter the programme successfully graduating. Renault has also invested heavily in improving the whole-life customer experience. Launched in 2006 was E4: Excellence, everyone, everywhere, everytime', which was created to ensure Renault stood out through the quality of its customer service, leading to improved loyalty and profitability. Identified after extensive European research with hundreds of customer interviews, E4 focuses on 20 essentials that the dealer network have been provided with, 10 for Sales and 10 specifically for After-Sales. 'E4'is part of the five point 'Renault Excellence Plan'which are company-wide objectives to improve quality on a global scale. These are to design robust vehicles, manufacture compliant vehicles, increase reliability for all types of use, ensure sales and after-sales quality and instill a culture of quality in the company. After investing their time and resources in all of these projects, Renault fittingly seeks to recognise its dealership network's efforts through its annual Renault Global Quality Awards. Renault Business Promise, successfully launched a year ago to ensure that business customers of every fleet size, have three years guaranteed care-free mobility, through the most complete manufacturer care package comprising warranty, recovery, servicing and delivery promises, is soon to be followed by a similar programme for retail customers. Set to launch on 1st January 2012, the Renault Quality Commitment, will guarantee that the quality of a customer's car or van is mirrored by the high level of service they receive from Renault. Together with the Renault Business Promise, and another reason why the French manufacturer has secured two high-profile fleet awards in less than a year for improving its fleet performance through its clever customer-centric ideas, is Renault Pro+. Launched 18 months ago, this one-stop shop for business customers has gone from strength to strength, hardly surprising given several of its core benefits: extended opening and service hours, specialist business sales and after-sales advisors, larger commercial vehicle demonstrator numbers and displays including converted products and dedicated business customer areas. The last piece of the jigsaw in terms of enhancing the Renault customer experience is 'Project Air'. This far-reaching initiative involves completely upgrading the interior and exterior of a dealership in line with the 'Drive the Change'brand identity. It covers every customer-facing aspect of the business, including new fixtures, fittings, floors and lighting to give a contemporary, airy and light feeling, in line with the French marque's affinity with stylish design. Currently a fifth of UK dealerships have benefited from the programme and customer feedback has been overwhelming positive. The rest of the core Renault network will be completed by the end of 2014.
TUESDAY 9TH AUGUST 2011
RENAULT EXTENDS CLIO GORDINI LINE-UP
now, priced £14,000 and £14,950 on-the-road. Deliveries from September 2011
Gordini racing stripes, body coloured spoiler, Gordini badging and interior touches. High specification offers climate control, front fog lights and hands-free keycard Just weeks after widening the Wind Roadster range to include an enticingly affordable 1.2-litre version, the burgeoning Gordini line-up now takes in two extra Clios, priced from £14,000. The Gordini range has proved an immense hit, as illustrated by the success of Clio Gordini which accounts for 27 per cent of overall Clio Renaultsport sales in Europe and over 10 per cent in the UK. Enabling UK buyers to get the look and feel of the 200hp flagship Gordini, but with lower fuel consumption, emissions and running costs, including insurance, the latest incarnations of the iconic Gordini badge debut in three-door form, with the petrol 1.6 VVT 128 and diesel 1.5 dCi 106. Adding a little extra 'Va Va Voom'to Renault's best-selling model range, the petrol model welcomes the rev-loving engine from the former GT, itself slightly detuned from the grin-inducing Twingo Renaultsport 133. In the warmed over Clio, it gives lively performance of 0-62 mph in 9.3 seconds, combined with an impressive 42.2 mpg on the combined cycle. The Clio Gordini 128 costs £14,000 on-the-road. The second version with the 'French Touch'comes with the acclaimed 1.5 dCi 106 and costs £14,950. Nippy thanks to its compact dimensions and lively performance, the newcomer is equally at home on the open road as it is in the urban environment, thanks to its standard six-speed gearbox. It is capable of a fuel-sipping 62.8 mpg on the combined cycle, or at the other end of the performance spectrum, 119 mph. Emitting only 110g CO2, it is also free from road fund licence and only £20 in the second year. Unsurprisingly, whichever engine buyers opt for, each version retains the usual Gordini styling cues. On the outside, its unmistakable personality comes by way of twin white racing stripes across the bonnet, roof and tailgate. Adding to its sense of visual drama are co-ordinating white electric folding door mirrors and front bumper strip, Gordini badges, 16' Turini alloy wheels, body colour rear spoiler and twin tailpipe exhausts. Other external enhancements come by way of body coloured side mouldings and door handles, extra tinted side and rear windows, front fog lights and fixed cornering lights. On the inside, luxurious touches and creature comforts abound. The Gordini touches begin with grey cloth upholstery with Gordini logo (grey or blue leather are optional and blue cloth is a no-cost option), leather Gordini steering wheel with grey detail and white stripe, Gordini satin chrome effect gearknob with blue Gordini badge and black surround with satin chrome gaiter lever. Other upmarket elements include gloss black detailing for the centre console and dash and air vent surrounds, plus a white rev counter. Naturally, both newcomers come highly-equipped. Among the standard specification are 4x20W radio CD with aux input and fingertip remote controls, auto lights and wipers, climate control, cruise control, front curtain airbags and speed limiter. In keeping with their upmarket pretensions, the two new versions can be upgraded with several options, including Carminat TomTom satellite navigation, multi-functional TunePoint or electric panoramic sunroof. Optional metallic paint comes in Malta Blue, Pearl Black and Ruby Red. The standard body colour, Glacier White, features contrasting anthracite grey Gordini racing stripes, door mirrors and front bumper insert. Both of the latest entrants to the Gordini club are available to order now, priced £14,000 and £14,950 on-the-road. More information on the Gordini versions is available at http://www.renault.co.uk/cars/model/new-clio/gordini.aspx. Details of the rest of the Renault range can be found at www.renault.co.uk, Renault TV on Sky Guide 883 and Freesat 651, or by following on twitter @renault_uk.
MONDAY 8TH AUGUST 2011
RENAULT SCÉNIC DRIVES AWAY (ECOLOGICALLY) WITH MPV TITLE AT NEXT GREEN CAR AWARDS 2011 The countdown to Renault's unprecedented wave of electric vehicles has already begun, but proving that it is still developing some of the finest internal combustion engines, its latest state-of-the-art diesel has propelled the Scenic to victory at the Next Green Car Awards 2011. The Renault Scenic 1.6 dCi Stop-Start won the gold award in the MPV section of the honours that are considered to be the most scientifically-based green car awards in the UK, all selected for their environmental 'green car rating', level of innovation, value, drive experience and design. Judges selected the latest version of Renault's high-selling family car as the winner of the MPV category for its low CO2 emissions of just 115 g/km and for its frugality, with up to 64.2 mpg achievable on the combined cycle. They said, 'Not only is the new stop-start Renault Scenic well-equipped with all the versatility needed of an MPV, it has great fuel economy and handling: all at a very reasonable price.' The Renault Scenic 1.6 dCi Stop-Start is highly economical to run, with lower tax and fuel costs, plus a benefit-in-kind rating of just 13%. In spite of its fuel-sipping nature, performance has not been compromised, with 0-62mph possible in just 10.3 seconds. Adding to the plaudits for Renault's environmental focus, the eagerly-anticipated Fluence Z.E. saloon and new 94 g/km 'Eco'Clio also took Commended respectively in the Next Generation and Supermini sections. Dr Ben Lane, Managing Editor of Next Green Car said: 'The 2011 winners reflect the latest technologies being used by manufacturers to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, which range from the clean-diesel innovations such as 'stop-start', 'regen-braking'and catalysed particulate filters.' Renault UK's Marketing Director, Phil York, added: 'We're delighted to be accepting this award from Next Green Car for our best-selling MPV. The brand new 1.6 dCi 130 is the most powerful diesel engine of its size on sale today and yet has the lowest CO2 and fuel consumption of any MPV on the market. 'Since it was launched at the Paris Motor Show last autumn, there has been a lot of interest in both five- and seven-seat versions fitted with this innovative engine. Such is its success, that we're looking to extend its use on other Renault models.' For more information, visit www.nextgreencar.com/awards-2011 or www.renault.co.uk/cars/model/newscenic/stop-and-start.aspx.
WEDNESDAY 20TH JULY 2011 RENAULT SPORT F1 PREVIEW TO THE GERMAN GP The 2011 FIA Formula One World Championship now makes its way to Germany for round 10 of 19, the German Grand Prix, held this year at the twisty, undulating 3.2 mile Nürburgring on the edge of the Eifel mountains and forest range to the north of the country. The German Grand Prix is the home race for two drivers from Renault-powered teams; Lotus Renault GP's Nick Heidfeld and Red Bull Racing-Renault's Sebastian Vettel. Renault engines have won at the Nürburgring five times, the first victory coming in 1995 with Michael Schumacher and the fifth at the 2009 German Grand Prix with Red Bull's Mark Webber. A lap of Germany from an engine point of view: Sector one There's a long run from the start finish line to the first corner, the Castrol-S, a second gear hairpin where revs will drop very low: just 9,500rpm. Then it's straight into the Mercedes-Arena; a second to third gear complex taken with an average speed of around 62 mph. Through this section the engine needs to have good braking control on the entry to corners and good traction on the exit, however also needs to be responsive enough to accelerate out of the arena down the short straight leading down to turn 5 where cars will hit 167 mph before the braking zone. Sector two Turn 5 is a fourth gear left hander that quickly tightens into turn 6, a right hander taken in third gear, but then it's back on the power for another short burst before the next heavy braking zone for the Dunlop-Kehre hairpin. Like turn 1, this hairpin is taken in 2nd and engine revs drop quite low: just 10,500rpm. The driver then needs a responsive engine to accelerate for the 'straight'leading through turns 8 and 9. Even though turns 8 and 9 are taken in sixth at 155 mph : not normally top speed: the drivers will be flat and will pull around 3.5g through this section. They will then drop from 181 mph to 90 mph and third gear for turn 10. Sector three Sector three is the shortest section in time, taking around 24 seconds to complete. It's also the highest average speed on the track and the DRS activation zone, which comes 62m after turn 11. Drivers will be able to make use of the DRS on the 755m straight from turn 11 to 13 before braking for turn 13, or the Veedol chicane, a second gear chicane that sees drivers brake from 189 mph to just 56 mph. The track then opens back out for a final sprint to the last corner, a third gear right hander taken at 75 mph, before rejoining the pit straight for another lap. View from Remi Taffin, head of Renault Sport F1 track operations: The Nürburgring is a medium speed track with an average of 118 mph and a maximum speed of 189 mph in qualifying. The average is balanced out by a mix of low speed corners, such as turns 1 and 7 where the cars will run between 47 and 59 mph and the four long straights. As a result the engine has to be driveable through the lower revs but also offer responsiveness and top end power. In particular we will work carefully on the selection of the top gear ratios since seventh gear will be engaged four times a lap, a higher than average usage. Track conditions change a lot over the weekend at the Nürburgring. Even though the circuit is used frequently by other motorsport formulae over the year, the fact Formula 1 only visits once every two years means that fresh rubber will be laid down during the weekend. As a result we will run less aggressive engine maps at the start of the event to allow the driver to be smoother on the throttle and fine tune towards a more aggressive mapping as the grip improves. Did you know'¦ The back to back Grands Prix in Germany and Hungary will see the Renault Sport F1 trucks depart from the Nürburgring on Sunday night to arrive at the Hungaroring in Budapest by Tuesday. To supply three teams RSF1 takes four trucks to each race carrying five tonnes of equipment. One truck is stationed next to the Red Bull Racing engineering area, a second next to Lotus Renault GP and a third: used principally as a communications 'common space': next to Team Lotus. The other truck is parked in the truck parking area to the exterior of the circuit. Approximately 30 people attend each race, six engineers and technicians per team, plus five logistics and a small marketing and management team. German Grand Prix* facts and figures *stats refer to 2009 German Grand Prix, the last German GP held at the Nürburgring 2009 qualifying results
2009 race results
Renault statistics in F1 136 wins, 185 poles * including Playlife, Supertec and Mecachrome
14/07/2011 - Renault launches new Wind Roadster Gordini, plus range priced from £12,995
THURSDAY 14TH JULY 2011
RENAULT LAUNCHES NEW WIND ROADSTER GORDINI, PLUS RANGE PRICED FROM JUST £12,995
As Britain continues to enjoy another *tropical summer, Renault's Wind Roadster has ushered in a new Gordini flagship, as well as shed a few pounds for the summer. Up to £2,215 to be precise. Timed perfectly to coincide with open-air summer driving and the imminent arrival of the two new Gordini versions, Renault has also reduced the list price of Dynamique and GT Line versions of its coupe-roadster, making the entry-level version now just £12,995. Of course, should the heavens open, the chic two-seater is more than capable of coping, thanks to its ingenious roof which rotates closed in only 12 seconds. The third Gordini to join the fold, in Wind Roadster guise, it welcomes the trademark Malta Blue metallic paint with twin white Gordini stripes (Pearl Black and Glacier White are no cost options. White versions come with chrome effect bodywork detailing), plus the usual Gordini badges on the side pillars. Adding to the exterior style with the 'French Touch', both the 1.2 and 1.6 versions benefit from white door mirrors, grille trim and cowls, 17-inch alloy wheels with a polished face and gloss black inserts. The upmarket theme continues in the cockpit-style cabin with Gordini blue and dark grey leather seats with embossed Gordini logo, numbered Gordini plaque (1-200), satin chrome effect gearknob with blue Gordini badge and blue gearstick surround. Complementing the Gordini touches is a high standard specification, including Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, multi-functional TunePoint for USB connections and Thatcham category 1 alarm. The latest version can also be upgraded with three key options. The most eye-catching is a Renaultsport exhaust for £450 (1.6 only), joined by 17-inch Gordini alloy wheels with polished face and blue inserts, plus a wind deflector for £200. The revised prices for the full Wind Roadster range are already in place, making the entertaining and well-specified coupe-roadster an even more tempting proposition.
The new Gordini versions and rest of the revised Wind Roadster range are available to order now.More information on the Renault range is available at www.renault.co.uk, with the latest Renault news on Renault TV on Sky Guide 883 and Freesat 651, or by following on twitter @renault_uk One
thousand and one Renault 4 at the '4L international' event of the
Renault 4
July
13, 2011
·
A thousand 'blue jeans" cars from all over the
world will come together at the '4L International" event on 15th-17th
June at Thenay (in the centre of France).
·
Unique: From 13th: 19th August, the
'Saline4Fun' will take part in Speed Week at Salt Lake City (Utah).
Objective: 250kph.
This year, as the Renault 4 celebrates its fiftieth anniversary, one
thousand 4L from all over Europe or even further will gather
from 15th to 17th July at Thenay in the centre of France for the third
consecutive '4L International' event, bringing "blue jeans
car" enthusiasts together over two days.
Participants will enjoy the surprises that Renault Classic, the event's
partner, has in store for them, most of all the presence of Jean
Ragnotti - who will present the lucky winner of a prize draw with the
Renault 4 that he drove at the last Monte Carlo Historical Rally. A
selection of exceptional Renaults from the Renault collection or private
collections will also be on show.
However, Renault 4 number one thousand and one will no
doubt catch the visitors'eyes.
While the 'blue jeans car' has made a name for itself for many
different reasons over its long and successful career (8,135,424
vehicles sold in over 100 countries over 31 years on the market), this
is the very first time it will be given a 290hp engine to try and reach
the straight-line speed of 280kph!
Les Triplettes de Bonneville and Renault Classic will in fact be showing
off a Renault 4 Fourgonnette van, known as 'Saline4Fun', for the
very first time. The vehicle will be
taking part in Speed Week at Salt Lake City (Utah) from 13th-19th
August, where the goal will be to beat a speed record on the legendary
Bonneville Salt Flats.
These events are all part of the festivities planned this year to mark
the 50th anniversary of the Renault 4, an emblematic model for the
diamond brand.
For the third year running, the 4L International meeting, bringing
together enthusiasts from all over Europe and beyond, will be held at
Thenay in the centre of France, in the heart of the Loire Valley tourist
region.
The event has been backed by 4L Magazine and Renault Classic since it
was founded.
'4L International' is an opportunity for enthusiasts to:
·
meet and admire the vehicles of the various participants,
·
watch demonstrations given by well-known drivers and
personalities who have a connection with the Renault 4,
·
see the vehicles displayed by Renault Classic,
·
discover the region during a tourist rally,
·
buy and sell parts and accessories in the market village.
·
major contribution from Renault Classic who will show off
around fifteen Renault 4,
·
a raffle where the star prize is the Renault 4 driven by
Jean Ragnotti at the Monte Carlo Historical Rally 2011,
·
a number of games and competitions,
·
a concert on the Saturday evening.
For the 50th anniversary of the Renault 4, the event will be even more
spectacular with:
APPENDIX 2: THE 'Saline4Fun'
The
project
The project headed by Les Triplettes de Bonneville aims to celebrate the
car's 50th anniversary with an unlikely version of the Renault 4 F4 on
the legendary salt lake at Bonneville in the USA, in August 2011.
To achieve their objective, they've had to:
·
increase the vehicle's performance with a new power
train,
·
ensure the vehicle is compliant with SCTA regulations,
·
transport it over to the USA and drive it on the salt at
Bonneville.
Although Les Triplettes have taken care of the last two prerequisites,
they needed all Renault Classic's expertise to fulfil the first
requirement. An
unlikely Renault 4
The passion and the enthusiasm of Les Triplettes de Bonneville are
ideally suited to the Renault 4. This new challenge (increasing the
vehicle's performance with a new power train) will bring yet another
dimension to the multi-functional 4L yet and Renault Classic is taking
up the challenge with them.
Les Triplettes and Renault Classic have agreed to maintain the
vehicle's original appearance.
After hesitating for a while about the mechanics, they finally opted for
a Renault 5 Turbo engine, loaned temporarily by a model from the
collection. Renault Classic is fitting the engine to the Renault 4,
adapting and fitting a specific gearbox, adapting the platform, the
steering, suspension and braking components, the wiring harness and the
petrol supply circuit, and preparing the paint and bodywork. Renault
Sport Technologies is helping Renault Classic, providing advice and
support (on the electrical harness in particular).
And hence the 'Saline4Fun' is born!
Outside, only a very reduced ground clearance and a few "details'
such as the exhaust coming out of the front right-hand wing or the
parachute roof hatch suggest that this fun-looking van offers better
performance than a regular Renault 4 van, like the ones used by
tradesmen and company fleets in the past.
The base: Renault 4 Fourgonnette (R4F4) from 1983
Chassis: original chassis, modified at the front to fit a specific
gearbox (on the basis of the Renault 21 Turbo and Renault 25 GTX
gearboxes).
Running gear: specific hub carriers and suspension uprights.
Suspension: specific.
Bodywork: original bodywork with wings and bonnet adapted.
Weight: approx. 720kg. Engine
and gearbox
Source: Renault 5 Turbo in French Championship set-up, based on 1983
production vehicles (driver - Jean Ragnotti).
Power: 290 hp
Positioning: same as original engine.
Gearbox: specific, based on Renault 21 Turbo and Renault 25 GTX
gearboxes.
Brakes: Renault 25 (front) and Clio 2 (rear). Safety
Roll cage, harness, extinguishers, US-standard bucket seat, para-brake. Technical
partners
·
Renault Classic
·
Daniel Heurton and Les Triplettes de Bonneville;
·
Renault Sport Technologies
·
Orbisoud (exhaust).
·
Ferry Developpement (engine). SCTA
category
Blown Gas Cup, engine class H (from 1016 to 1523 hp). Presentation
of the Speed Week
The SCTA (Southern California Timing Association) has organised Speed
Week on the Salt Lake located 160km to the east of Salt Lake City since
1949. Each summer, some of the lake's water evaporates, leaving salt
flats that are ideal for speed racing. The only disadvantage is the
1,200m altitude which isn't good for engine performance, and
temperatures nearing 45°.
For one week every year, over 500 competitors try and beat the land
speed record, in cars or on motorbikes and sometimes in trucks. There
are many different categories according to the type of vehicle, its age
and how it has been transformed.
The runs (record attempts) take place on one of three tracks, fitted
with time control cells every mile. If your speed beats the current
record in your category, the car is enclosed to a fenced-off area. The
next morning, all the competitors whose vehicles have been sent to this
area have to repeat their performance and, if your average of the two
"runs" still beats the record, the title is yours! 2011
event
Everything will begin with the two days of technical inspection on the
11th and 12th August.
Then, on the 13th, the opening ceremony will take place to officially
launch the race week. The runs will come to an end at midday on 19th
August '¦ and the records will be awarded. Les
Triplettes de Bonneville
Three childhood friends, Jean Caillou, Gilles Pujol, and Frank Figuls,
joined by Bernard Canonne, all 4L enthusiasts, founded Les Triplettes de
Bonneville Their
achievements:
13 car and motorbike records, in various categories.
Les Triplettes hold:
·
the first French car record at Bonneville since Renault in
1956 (records FIA),
·
the first French SCTA record,
·
the first French SCTA motorbike record,
·
the first French female SCTA record, The Renault 4: 50 years and counting! VINCI
autoroutes and Renault team up to develop the electric vehicle in France
July
13, 2011 | ID: 29127 VINCI
Autoroutes and Renault are joining forces to deploy electric vehicle
charging infrastructure, along with the associated services, on the
motorway network operated by VINCI Autoroutes. The partnership covers
three areas of cooperation:
·
VINCI Autoroutes will draw on Renault's
expertise to install electric vehicle charging stations in carpool
parking lots. At least five spaces will be set aside for electric
vehicles in each lot. VINCI Autoroutes'companies will build 738
carpool parking spaces between now and 2013.
·
In addition VINCI Autoroutes and Renault will work
on installing quick-charging infrastructures in some motorway service
plazas. This program will focus on the sections of the VINCI Autoroutes
network most commonly used for short-distance journeys, particularly
commuting. Three such sections are Paris: Orleans: Tours, Paris
: Chartres: Le Mans and Arles: Montpellier.
·
VINCI Autoroutes plans to add electric vehicles to
its operating fleet. The
aim is to carry out the first tangible operations by the end of 2011. These
initiatives stem from the signature by VINCI and Renault of the national
charter for the installation of public infrastructures for electric
vehicle charging. The charter was signed on April 13, 2010 at the
instigation of the ministers responsible for the environment,
transportation and industry. Commenting,
Andre Broto, Executive Vice President of VINCI Autoroutes, said: 'The
partnership with Renault shows that we are determined to be an assertive
player in the sphere of sustainable mobility by offering customers
motorways that are safer, more user-friendly and more
environment-protective and encouraging them to drive differently'.
Bernard Cambier, Senior Vice President, Market Area France, added: 'I
am delighted with the partnership with VINCI Autoroutes for at least two
reasons. First, we are demonstrating that the electric vehicle is also
suitable for inter-city motorway journeys, provided the charging
infrastructure is in place. Second, VINCI Autoroutes has chosen Renault
for its electric vehicle fleet. This further proves the relevance of our
strategy of offering a full range of four electric vehicles aimed both
at business customers and at individuals'.
VINCI Autoroutes, which comprises ASF, Cofiroute, Escota and Arcour, is
Europe's leading motorway operator. Its 4,384 km network accounts for
nearly half of the French network under concession. Harnessing its
corporate performance to serve the public interest, VINCI Autoroutes is
working to make motorways safer, more user-friendly and more
environment-protective. VINCI Autoroutes is rising to the challenge of
sustainable mobility by taking action to support any initiative that
helps improve the performance of its network. Press
contact A
propos de Renault
Present on all continents with over 30 production sites and 18,000
business sites in 118 countries, Renault designs, produces and sells a
broad range of innovative vehicles that with each new generation are
increasingly safe and more respectful of the environment. a full range
of four Renault Z.E.* electric vehicles accessible to all: Kangoo Z.E.,
Fluence Z.E., Twizy and ZOE. The first vehicles in the range will appear
in the showrooms in Fall 2011. Renault and the Alliance had signed more
than 100 partnerships agreement at end June 2011 with public authorities
and stakeholders in regions throughout the world to foster the
development and marketing of the electric vehicle. 12/07/2011 - 100,000th Master Van rolls off Renault's SoVAB plant production line
TUESDAY 12TH JULY 2011 100,000TH MASTER VAN ROLLS OFF RENAULT'S SOVAB PLANT PRODUCTION LINE: COMMERCIAL SUCCESS FOR A MANUFACTURING CHALLENGE
The 100,000th Master van rolled out of Renault's SoVAB plant (Societe de Vehicules Automobiles de Batilly) in eastern France yesterday. The landmark figure speaks volumes for the vehicle's success, and orders for Renault Master have increased by 40 per cent compared to the same period in 2010. The brand's 14 per cent share of Europe's big van market up to end-May 2011 represents a rise of two points and 16 per cent over the first five months of 2010. And this success isn't restricted to Europe either, since it is mirrored in the Euromed[1] region where the vehicle enjoys a market share of 17.9 per cent (up 49 per cent). To meet the challenge, 90 people were recruited during the first half of 2011 The SoVAB plant has pulled out all the stops to meet this growing demand which has resulted in full order books. Production rates have risen sharply, while 90 people were taken on during the first half of the year, allowing the factory to run two-and-a-half shifts. Everything is now in place for the unprecedented production rate of 600 vehicles per day to be reached by the last quarter of 2011. "A remarkable team effort" From Master's launch to the availability of all 350 versions in all its international markets took a little more than one year, a remarkably short period of time given the immense challenge it represented in manufacturing terms. Indeed, while the broad variety of variants means that the needs of business customers are comprehensively covered, it has naturally made production more complex. "All those involved in the project produced a remarkable team effort," says Pierre Monflier, Factory Director. "Their unfailing commitment and motivation enabled us to make all 350 variants of Master available in time. That's an achievement we can be proud of, and our biggest reward is the response of our customers which has resulted in full order books." The 100,000th vehicle was delivered to the Colas Group which took delivery of its Master at SoVAB's premises on 11 July. Philippe Brissonneau, the Group's Equipment Director, explained his firm's choice of a Master chassis cab which will go on to be converted into a dropside platform by Renault Tech: "We have worked with Renault for some years. Indeed, Renault is a fairly straightforward choice because our activity calls for reliable vehicles which match our needs at the lowest possible price. Renault has always met those requirements. We are convinced that this Master will be even better than its predecessor, which is a vehicle we know very well. Being able to depend on Renault's network is obviously a big plus, too!" Renault Master: an office on wheels The latest Master is the third generation of Renault's large van. In addition to the range's breadth, the model features extensively revised, robust styling and significantly lower running costs (down 40 per cent), thanks notably to the fuel efficiency of the new M9T engine which is made in Cleon, France. Master is also more driver-friendly, while work has gone into stowage solutions and innovations like pivoting and retractable tables, Carminat TomTom Live navigation and Bluetooth connectivity that make the cabin a genuine office on wheels. Renault Master acclaimed by the experts In addition to Master's success with its customers, the model has also been acclaimed by the trade's professionals:
THE SOVAB FACTORY (Societe des Vehicules Automobiles de Batilly)
More information on the Renault range is available at www.renault.co.uk, with the latest Renault news on Renault TV on Sky Guide 883 and Freesat 651, or by following on twitter @renault_uk.
06/07/2011 - R1 to IRC. Twingo Trophy comes to the UK
R1 to IRC. Twingo Trophy comes to the UK Renault Sport Technologies will launch two single make rally championships in the UK starting next year. The UK Twingo R1 and R2 Trophies will run alongside the MSA British Rally Championship, following each event across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man from 2012. Renault is unique in being the only manufacturer to have a car homologated in each of the three FIA two wheel drive classes. 'R1 to IRC' may not be the catch phrase that defines the new Twingo Trophies, but it is the key principle behind the initiative, which will focus not only on providing close competition, but also give drivers an opportunity to progress through the categories in Renault rally cars. The Twingo Trophy cars will be based on the 133hp Twingo Renaultsport and are aimed at budget conscious buyers, coming in the form of motorsport kits featuring all the required parts. The Twingo R1 Trophy, cars from which can participate in all regional, national and international rallies, is based on a production car fitted with essential safety equipment, the R1's 133hp 1.6 litre engine and gearbox being identical to the production model. The Trophy organisers will provide spares and technical support for R1, R2 and R3 Renaults on all rounds of the UK Trophies, forming a Renault village in the service areas. The prize structure is yet to be confirmed but is likely to take the form of parts vouchers on each event, plus overall prizes for each of the Twingo R1 Trophy, Twingo R2 Trophy and for the highest placed Clio R3 driver registered in the MSA British Rally Championship. The overall prizes will be geared to progression from R1 to IRC, helping each winner to move forward in their rally careers. Prices for the kits and parts are also to be confirmed, but will be in line with European price lists as Italy, Spain and Switzerland all have Renault one make rally series. RENAULT Sport Technologies' CEO, Patrice Ratti said: 'Renault Sport Technologies intensifies its presence in UK rallying and the creation of a Trophy for Twingo in R1 and R2 categories makes me very happy. The remarkable road holding abilities of Twingo Renaultsport 133 will help young rally drivers to compete in a national championship, at an affordable price. This new trophy will reinforce the image of Renaultsport cars in the UK market which is extremely important for our brand and where Renault Sport Technologies has been enjoying a constant growth in the recent years." The championships will be managed by former BRC Press Officer Simon Moss who has plenty of experience of one makes. Previously the Press Officer for Peugeot Sport's 206 Super Cup and Fiat's Stilo Rally Cup, he has worked in the motorsport industry for over 20 years. 'I became involved in one-makes in 1999 when I co-drove in the 106 Cup and with a mechanical background I think I've seen the sport from most angles. I think the controlled environment of any one make series is an excellent place for talent to shine and after seeing the Twingos in the BRC for two years, I think the series will provide great focal point for competition.' Two customer days are planned in the near future, the first expected to be around the Ulster Rally in Northern Ireland in mid August, the second running alongside the BRC Open Day in early September. RENAULT SPORT F1 PREVIEW TO THE BRITISH GP06/07/2011 - Renault Sport F1 Preview to the British GP
WEDNESDAY 6TH JULY 2011 RENAULT SPORT F1 PREVIEW TO THE BRITISH GP This weekend the FIA Formula One World Championship makes its annual visit to Silverstone, Great Britain. Well attended by fans and media, it's also a special event for Renault Sport F1's partner teams, who are based within two hours drive of the Northamptonshire-based track. Red Bull Racing is located in Milton Keynes, some 30km away, Lotus Renault GP in the neighbouring county and Team Lotus slightly further afield to the east of England in Norfolk. New-for-2012 partner AT&T Williams is also based to the south of Oxford. Renault Sport F1 has reasons of its own to look forward to the race as it's been the scene of some of its finest-ever victories. The first win came in 1983 with the Renault RE40 and Alain Prost, with Nigel Mansell taking the winners' spoils in 1991 for Williams-Renault. This win started a series of wins for Renault engines at Silverstone: alongside partners Williams and Benetton, the V10 took seven consecutive victories from 1991 to 1997. Fernando Alonso also won in 2006 for the Renault F1 Team and current partners Red Bull Racing finished on the top step in 2009 and 2010. A lap of Silverstone from an engine point of view: From its first configuration as part of a WWII airfield, Silverstone has historically been a 'power track'. The circuit has since undergone numerous re-incarnations but has retained its high-speed character. In fact, it was at Silverstone in 1985 that the fastest ever qualifying lap was recorded when Keke Rosberg set an average speed of more than 155 mph over one lap, a record that stood for 16 years. Last year there were further track modifications with the addition of a new complex between the Abbey and Luffield corners but the track remains one of the quickest tracks of the season, with approximately 65% of the lap spent at full throttle with a high average speed. Sector one The start-finish line has been moved this year to the international pit straight that starts after Club Corner following the recent completion of the new pits and paddock complex with its impressive jagged-edge roof. The first corner is now the super quick Abbey corner, a right hand flick taken at 165 mph. The first heavy braking zone comes at turn 3, or Village, taken in second gear at 59 mph. It's the start of a slow complex where engine driveability is key. After rounding turn five, cars then blast onto the Wellington straight: top speed at the end of the straight will be around 186 mph. Sector two Sector two starts before the Brooklands corner, the start of another low speed section that sees cars brake down from 186 mph to third gear and 87 mph and then shift down again for the Luffield turns, a spoon-profiled corner taken in second at around 62 mph. After this it's then back on the throttle down the old pit straight, shifting into seventh gear and hitting 188 mph before shifting down to sixth for Copse corner. Despite the tight profile of this corner, it's still taken at around 161 mph so lateral g-forces are very high. After a short sprint comes the awesome Maggotts-Beckett-Chapel complex, a sweeping, high-speed complex of four connecting bends that need rapid changes of direction and complete responsiveness from the engine. Average speeds through this section are around 155 mph and speeds will be no lower than 118 mph at any one point. Sector three After the complex the cars then blast down the Hangar Straight, the longest straight on the circuit at 875m. Top speeds here will peak at 192 mph before the braking zone for the first corner in this sector, Stowe, a fourth gear right hander. Then it's onto the Vale straight and then a quick left hand chicane and the radial turn of Club, taken in second gear. View from Remi Taffin, head of Renault Sport F1 track operations: Silverstone is always a great event for Renault Sport F1 since our current partners are based in the UK. Technically there isn't any more effort for this race, but the fact there are so many people from partners'factories means we all want to put on a good show and achieve a good result on 'home ground'. Even with the changes last year, Silverstone is still a power track, with 66% of the lap spent at full throttle in qualifying and 61% in the race. With the four straights over the course of the lap the average speed is also high: approx 134 mph : so it sits towards the top end of the calendar in terms of the demands it puts on the engine. At the same time the engine has to be responsive out of the slower corners such as Luffield and the Loop since they all lead onto the long straights. Another challenge this weekend will be the introduction of a new technical directive issued by the FIA to limit the effect of off-throttle exhaust blowing devices. This obviously requires a lot of work from the teams in Viry before the race and over the weekend, pending the results of Friday practice. In terms of the results, we may find that it affects the balance of the car as they have been developed around different floor concepts based on the exhaust gas flow. It is possible that the noise could also be different. Pre-Valencia it almost sounded like the cars were running with traction control as there were a lot of braking sounds, but now engines will sound smoother. This will also be our second race with the ban on changing engine maps between qualifying and the race. Our maps have always been very similar between qualifying and the race anyway, but should the weather be predicted to change between qualifying and the race we will have to think very carefully about which maps to use. Historically the weather can change quite a lot over the Silverstone weekend, so overall it's shaping up to be an interesting weekend. Did you know'¦ A blown diffuser is where exhaust gases are directed from the exhaust outlet to the diffuser at the rear of the car. The use of the gases helps generate more downforce and therefore helps increase stability under braking and on the exit from corners. The problem with this is that when the driver is off the throttle there is no exhaust gas. A hot blown diffuser is used to maintain a constant stream of gas through the diffuser to maintain downforce levels. When a driver goes off the throttle pedal with a hot blown diffuser, the engine throttles are kept open, fuel keeps being injected and is ignited through careful mapping, therefore creating gas flow. British Grand Prix facts and figures 2010 qualifying results
2010 results
Renault statistics in F1 136 wins, 184 poles * including Playlife, Supertec and Mecachrome
Williams
Renault legendary partnership revived for 2012
July
04, 2011 Renault Sport F1 and
Williams F1 are delighted to announce a long-term chassis-engine
partnership. The
dream becomes reality for Dacia Duster no limit
June 30, 2011
Dacia's bold decision
to contest the 89th edition of the celebrated Pikes Peak Hill
Climb near Colorado Springs, USA, was rewarded with a time of 10m17s, an
effort which prompted the event's regulars to sit up and take
notice... In the hands of France's three-time Trophee
Andros champion Jean-Philippe Dayraut, Dacia Duster No Limit produced an
extremely competitive time for the course which enabled it to claim
third place overall against a field of Pikes Peak specialists and
previous winners. The car's run and podium finish were unanimously
praised by the organisers, fellow competitors and spectators alike. A hint of folly and bucket-loads
of passion for an unforgettable experience! Jean-Philippe Dayraut had long dreamt of
contesting the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, and his enthusiasm ended up
convincing Dacia and Renault Sport Technologies to join him in this
extraordinary adventure which called for a hint of folly and
bucket-loads of passion! Ahead of the big day, Jean-Philippe had just
three days of practice to prepare for the competition, familiarise
himself with the terrain and size up his rivals, many of whom have been
contesting the event for years and know the course by heart. Covering
the full 20km course and its 156 turns in one go was predictably an
unforgettable experience for the Dacia Duster No Limit driver. Indeed,
this is an event for professionals with experience of circuit racing and
loose surface competition, and Jean-Philippe Dayraut's record of six
French circuit racing titles (single-seaters, touring cars), as well as
in ice racing (he has won the Trophee Andros three times, including the
2010/2011 series), made him an ideally qualified opponent for the other
participants. 'It's got to be the most incredible and
craziest event I have ever done,' he smiled afterwards. 'The mix of
asphalt and gravel calls for special driving skills and I am thrilled to
have finished on the podium and competed up there with best.'
DHL and Renault put electromobility in gear |
Double
podium for Renault RS27 engine in European Grand Prix
June
26, 2011 Two Renault RS27
engines finished in the top three in today's European Grand
Prix at the Valencia Urban Circuit. Red Bull
Racing-Renault's Sebastian Vettel sealed his sixth victory in
eight races so far this season, finishing the 57 lap Grand Prix
more than 10secs ahead of Ferrari's Fernando Alonso. The
reigning world champion also consolidated the performance of the
Red Bull Racing-Renault package with the fastest lap of the
race. * including Supertec, Mecachrome and
Playlife statistics |
8'08'':
another record1 for Renault sport at the Nürburgring
Nordschleife with Megane R.S. Trophy
June
17, 2011 | ID: 28852 ·
A
time of 8'08'' has seen Megane R.S. Trophy: the new
limited edition version of Megane Renault Sport: establish a
new benchmark time for a production-specification front-wheel
drive car at the Nürburgring's infamous Nordschleife. This
performance beats the attempts of several far more powerful,
rear-wheel drive cars. ·
Renault
Sport -the sport brand of Renault- shows one more time what
Renault know-how and enthusiasm mean. Today's achievement
provides further evidence of the technological excellence that
goes into the design of Renault models and of how motorsport-proven
technical solutions are carried over to production cars, the
chief beneficiaries being the brand's customers.
|
RELATED PHOTOS
|
| This webpage was produced by webmaster@renaultownersclub.com Last updated | |
Terms and Conditions | Site by A.Worsley | © Renault Owners Club 2012. All rights reserved Registered Company Number: 05364708. Registered Company Address: Renowners Ltd, Mayhill House, London Road, Addington, West Malling, Kent ME19 5AN |
|
