Renault has unveiled its 2019 Formula 1 package, the R.S.19, as it strives to break clear of the midfield and edge closer towards its long-term title goal.
Renault took over the beleaguered Lotus squad in late 2015 and has made year-on-year progress, improving from ninth, to sixth, and then to fourth in the Constructors’ Championship last season.
Renault has previously outlined its intention to close the gap to Formula 1’s leading trio of teams though increasingly accepted its best chance will come with the planned overhaul of regulations in 2021, having yet to take a podium since its full-time return.
The manufacturer’s ambition was nonetheless underlined last summer when it acquired the services of Daniel Ricciardo on a two-year deal, with the seven-time Grand Prix winner joining Nico Hulkenberg.
Renault has also been undertaking extensive work on its engine package as it bids to close the gap on Mercedes and Ferrari, while keeping Honda at bay.
The R.S.19 is set to make its full on-track debut when pre-season testing gets underway at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya next Monday (18 February).
Red Bull and Mercedes will be next to take the covers off their 2019 machines on Wednesday, ahead of respective shakedowns, while Racing Point will launch its season in Toronto later in the day.
