Renault confident with new car

[Plex]

Renault made light of the loss of Fernando Alonso as they unveiled their new R27 car on Wednesday, saying the double world champion's defection would be motivation for the revamped team.

The French team has made a clean sweep of driver and constructor titles over the last two years but that was on the back of outstanding performances from Spaniard Alonso.

He has now defected to rivals McLaren-Mercedes, leaving Renault to launch their championship bid with a team of Italian Giancarlo Fisichella and rookie Heikki Kovalainen.

"Double championship success in 2005 and 2006 has earned Renault its status as a major force in Formula 1," said team president Alain Dassas at the launch.

Managing director Flavio Briatore insisted that the loss of Alonso would act as motivation for the team.

"Like every year, we start the season hoping to win... like Ferrari, like McLaren," he said.

"Alonso's departure has motivated the troops. Renault will be battling for the podium at every Grand Prix."

The R27 has a new chassis but will use practically the same engine as the previous year's model.

It contains just 10 percent new parts compared with more than 95 percent in previous years. One other change will be the switch to Bridgestone tyres, with Renault having used Michelins the last few seasons.

As the elder statesman in the team, a lot of pressure will be put on Fisichella's shoulders � he will be the third most experienced driver on the grid this coming season � and he is sure he can deliver.

"The team has shown its confidence in me for the new season, and I am determined to repay that in the best way possible, out on track," he said.

"The team knows how to design winning cars capable of fighting for the championship. That means there is a fantastic opportunity for me this year, and I am determined to make the most of it."

Kovalainen is determined to push his new team-mate after joining Renault as a test driver in 2002.

"It is a big privilege for a rookie driver to start his career in a race-winning car, and I am focused on doing it justice," he said.

Motoring.iafrica