F1 2017: Renault’s R.S.17 F1 Car Launched

The Renault Sport Formula One Team has launched its 2017 F1 season challenger, the R.S.17, and announced its new sponsors - BP, Castrol and MAPFRE. The launch was also the first public unveil of the new Renault Sport brand identity, designed to provide a stronger link between Renault Sport Racing and Renault Sport Cars.

The R.S. 17 is powered by Renault Sport Racing’s R.E.17 power unit, the R.S.17 has no carry over parts from the R.S.16. The team has worked from a clean sheet of paper to respond to Formula 1’s latest regulations. It is the first Formula 1 car designed from the outset by Renault Sport Racing from its two locations in Enstone, England and Viry-Châtillon, France.

Cyril Abiteboul, Renault Sport Racing Managing Director added, “The R.S.17 is the first car which Enstone and Viry have been able to plan and develop from the outset and we’re satisfied by the fruits of this interaction. It’s a beautiful car. As well as the excitement of the R.S.17 itself, we also have a highly important new partner in BP through their BP and Castrol brands. For 2017 our performance targets are clear. We want to take a definite, tangible step forward in performance and results. Fifth position in the Constructors’ Championship is our goal.”
 
The R.S. 17 will be piloted by race drivers Nico Hülkenberg who joins Renault Sport from Foce India, and Jolyon Palmer who is back for a second season with Renault. The third and reserve driver, Sergey Sirotkin has also been confirmed for the 2017 season.