Flexibility more than power in Monaco according to Renault

On a winding track like that of Monaco, aerodynamics will play a less important role than on a circuit with long, fast curves. Hence the preponderant role of the engine for this weekend. But more than power, it is towards flexibility of use that the engineers of Renault concentrated their efforts for Sunday's race.

“The block runs at full speed for less than 30 seconds per lap, or barely a quarter of the distance, explains Rémi Taffin, Director of Track Operations. We have identified our goals for this weekend, and they are to optimize and improve the response of the powertrains. To do this, we explore the engine's limits at low revs and adjust the low level of torque entering and exiting slow corners. Thus, the thruster responds correctly at the precise moment when the pilot needs it. Monaco remains a circuit where the latter plays a vital role. The key sectors are located at the Rascasse corner, where the cars come close to the safety rails, and at the Piscine section, where the driver must make an extremely rapid change of direction while switching from the pedal to brakes to that of the accelerator. »

Regarding energy management, Rémi Taffin is not worried given the significant number of braking sessions on the circuit. The MGU-K will therefore recharge without problems during one round. “We are going to Monaco with the determination to offer a powertrain that will allow our teams to aim higher than third place. Following our successful test session in Barcelona, ​​new updates will be made to the software, and these will further improve the flexibility and reliability of our various systems. Likewise, we are working hard with our partner Total to test a new fuel which offers almost 10 additional hp, a significant gain in power. » A fuel that Red Bull had been able to try before the other teams from Barcelona. This time, Lotus, Caterham and Toro Rosso will also benefit from it.

The first laps in the Principality will take place on Thursday morning.