F1: Aero tweaks won't change order, admits Renault.

[Rory Phoulorie]

Renault is hoping that a revised aero package will help move it closer to the pace at this weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix, although technical director Bob Bell admits that it is unlikely to be challenging Ferrari and McLaren just yet.

After a disappointing start to its second title defence - in which engineering director Pat Symonds admitted to being surprised at the gulf between Renault and the leading teams - the Enstone operation was busy testing its latest developments at Sepang during last week's group test, with Heikki Kovalainen ending the week by topping the times on day four. Bell, however, is refusing to get carried away with predictions of a major step forward in Malaysia.

"Within the team, we are hoping to show that we have taken a step forward relative to Melbourne," he explained, "At this stage, it is unrealistic to talk about catching Ferrari or McLaren, but we need to show that progress has been made and that we are starting to close down the gap.

"We all find it frustrating to be in this position, because we're competitive people, we want to win and we don't like it when we're not winning. We have a responsibility to improve our performance, and that is a very strong motivation. But there is no lack of focus or determination within the team. We are just as focused now as we were at the same time last year � and working hard to improve the situation."

Although the R27 will introduce its latest aero tweak at Sepang, Bell is not expecting the development alone to have an influence on proceedings this weekend.

http://www.crash.net/news_view~cid~1~id~145659.htm