Renault haven't returned to Formula 1 to emulate Mercedes' dominance according to managing director Cyril Abiteboul, who believes such dominance is bad for the sport.
The French manufacturer launched a successful takeover of the Lotus team late last year, returning it to 'full works' status, with the goal of winning races within three to five years.
"It’s absolutely crucial to win, you don’t need to win every season but you have to be here for the brand and you will not impress anyone with your brand if you do not show the capacity to win," Abiteboul is quoted as saying by F1i.
Whilst titles will certainly be the aim during the latter stage of that timeframe, Renault doesn't wish to secure them in the dominant fashion Mercedes has – by winning a record-breaking 16 races during both of its championship years.
"We are not as premium as other brands, we are French and we are fighting," he added. "We want to do things a little bit differently, to create [an] exciting story, enjoyment and something that is good for the brand and the sport.
"We need to do a good job on the track so the two work in parallel; to be part of the show but also be competitive. Not necessarily win every race like Mercedes because that is not good for everyone but be a contender for every race."
