Renault India Pvt Ltd recently unveiled the Renault team car for the MRF Challenge at a special function in the national hub of car racing, Greater Noida. On the driver's seats of these swanky new cars for the event were the skilful Jon Lancaster and Alice Powell. Renault was the official engine supplier for the MRF Challenge held in 2012. All cars participating in the competition were powered by exclusive 2-litre engines, generating a maximum power of 201 PS, supplied by Renault Sport.
Over the years, Renault has seen some of the best Formula One engines power the vehicles in its stable. Renault V6 Turbo engine, used about three decades back, was popular as one of the most powerful engines of all time. The 90s was a highly successful time for Renault and cars powered by the Renault V10 engine won seven back-to-back titles in the 90s. Further, the Renault V8 is the recipient of three constructors’ titles and is a highly acclaimed engine till date. One of Formula One’s supreme engine suppliers, Renault has lived up to the expectations of many with a spectacular success rate over the last 35 years, averaging a title every three seasons.
At the MRF Challenge 2012, participants were provided with engines manufactured and designed in France by the prestigious Renault Sport. The 16-valve, 4-cylinder, 1998cc F4R832 engines can churn out a peak power of 210bhp at 6,500rpm and maximum torque of 220Nm at 5500rpm. The races have started on October 26, 2012 and will continue till February 10, 2013 in Delhi and Chennai in 10 separate rounds.
Managing Director of Renault India Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Marc Nassif, said at the unveiling event of the team car, “Renault’s 35-year association with Formula One racing has seen us design and produce some of the best powertrains that demonstrate our strong commitment to quality and innovation. Motor racing is in Renault’s DNA and with this championship Renault India will for the first time support motor racing in India both as an engine supplier for the championship as well as supporting two teams. Our motor racing heritage has always come in handy as it has helped us to design some of the most reliable and efficient engines over time and even today the benefits can be seen in the K9K engine which is extensively used and is without a doubt one of the best suited power plants for the Indian market.”
After the first round of MRF Challenge 2012, Jordan King currently leads the point table with 48 points. Conor Daly and Luciano Bacheta stand second and third with 44 and 39 points, respectively. The second round of MRF Challenge 2012 is scheduled to be held from November 30 to December 2, 2012.
