Despite the scandal last season, the Renault F1 team will continue to compete in Formula One next season. The team’s 75% stake has been sold to a still unnamed buyer.

Prodrive has been hotly tipped to be the ones taking over the team but reports are still unclear whether or not the company has been chosen by the Renault board with whom to ink the deal.

Genii Captial was also in the running to takeover Renault but the recent team officials favored Prodrive over Genii despite Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn favoring Genii.

Robert Kubica has taken over Fernando Alonso’s lead driver’s seat with Renault and the team has yet to select a second driver. New owners now face a possible Kubica exit as his contract states that he can opt out if the team is sold.

Source: Autocar

Twingo Renaultsport R2 Launched

How timely is that. Just a few days after seeing Clarkson drove the Twingo 133 Cup around Belfast in his “normal” road test, Renault announces a rally car based on the car.

Meet the Twingo Renaultsport R2. Consider it a Twingo 133 Cup on ritalin. The Twingo’s 1.6L engine has been tuned to dish out 158 bhp – 37 more than its standard output. The torque ECU has been tweaked so that the torque’s accessible at lower revs.

The engine’s mated to a five-speed sequential gearbox and a ZF limited-slip diff has also been slapped on to cope with some sideways action.For added safety, the car also gets a roll cage and two protective tubes slapped on the body shell.

The car’s also fitted with adjustable shock absorvers and ventilated brake discs at the front.

The R1 can be used to compete even in international rallies aimed at teams looking for a low-budget car for such competition. R2 upgrades will be availbale by April next year.

Gordini tuned Renault cars in the 1960s and the name will be making a comeback 40 years after and will be attached to the Twingo Renaultsport.

The badge does come with modificafications to the standard RS car. Outside, buyers can now opt for either metallic blue or black paint and racing stripes. Even the fog lamps get a white accents around them. The car also now sits atop 17-inch alloys with inner rims that match the paint job.

Inside, the car gets sports seats, a leather steering with option to match either the blue or black paint job, and a leather dash. To top it off, the gearknob is stamped with the Gordini badge.

The Gordini will be used for a series of Renault hot hatches pretty much like how Fiat uses Abarth to mark the souped up versions of their cars. A Clio Gordini is expected next year and a Megane Gordini is among talks.

Hot hatches have become really popular so a special badge would probably help Renault rival Fiat and its Abarth badge.

The $2,500 “people’s car” – the Tata Nano – has been making a killing ever since it has been launched in India. Tata even had to resort to a lottery to determine who gets a piece of the initial run.

Not too long ago, Tata announced that it is considering selling its rights to the car to allow other automakers to build and badge their own versions of the car.

Renault, however, wants a piece of that action without having to just re-badge a Nano. The French car company inked a deal with Bajaj Auto to build a rival to the Nano.

The car is dubbed the “ULC” at least for its developmental stages. Bajaj will be responsible for development and Renault will helm the markeing efforts. The car will be badged as a Renault.

The partners intend to churn out 400,000 units.

Source: Autocar

Renault has unveiled the Kangoo Be Bop ZE, a prototype that carries most of the technology to be used in the automaker’s planned electric car due 2011.

The electric Kangoo Be Bop ZE has a 59-bhp electric motor, powered by lithium-ion batteries under the dash. The top speed is pegged at 80 mph, while the car’s range is slated at 62 miles. Renault is planning to develop the technology further such that the range will be 100 miles when the Kangoo finally hits production. The car’s charging bay is in the front wing socket. With the standard plug being developed by automakers and energy firm RWE, charging time could be as little as 20 minutes for full batteries.

The Kangoo will also be given additional energy-saving features. Regenerative braking technology is present in the car. It also uses flat-surfaced wheels for improved airflow. Additionally, the ride height of the ZE prototype is 20mm lower than that of the standard Kangoo.

Renault hopes to launch electric variants of the Kangoo for Europe and the Megane for Israel, with an all-new Clio-based electric model due 2012.

Renault has launched a new entry-level Megane designed to make the car more accessible to potential buyers on a tight budget. Dubbed the Renault Megane Extreme, the car offers good functionality and a serviceable feature set despite the extremely low price tag.

The new Megane trim is cheaper than the basic Ford Focus model by over £1500. It also undercuts the cheapest VW Golf model by over £1500. That could be a very significant difference for buyers given the current economic conditions.

The Megane Extreme is available with a choice of two engines. The 1.6-liter petrol engine, which goes for 99 bhp, can be purchased at £13,250. There’s also a 1.5-liter turbodiesel, with a power of 85 bhp, available at £14,950.

Even with the low price, the Megane Extreme still gets air conditioning, electronic stability programme (ESP), an CD/mp3 player, and alloy wheels as standard features. That’s not too shabby, overall. Orders for the new Renault Megane Extreme start in May, and estimated time of arrival to showrooms is June.

Source: Autocar

The Renault Laguna Coupe has had a few special editions already. The latest is the Black Edition Laguna Coupe released recently by the French car manufacturer, featuring a set of dark color schemes and other exterior add-ons.

Pearlescent Black, Cassiopée Grey and Platine Grey—those are the colors in which the Black Edition Laguna Coupe is available. The car also receives something Renault had dubbed the “GT Look” pack, which includes some other exterior upgrades: twin chrome exhaust pipes, a new sporty bumper, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Bi-xenon headlights, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a dual-zone climate control system round out the Black Edition’s special features. It also gets a 140kW custom Arkamys sound system and six airbags.

Powered by the Renault dCi 150 turbodiesel, the Black Edition achieves an efficiency that almost reaches the 40mpg mark. The smaller engine also allows for reduced emissions, namely 157g/km of CO2 emissions. Sales of the Renault Black Edition Laguna Coupe should start later in April.

The ING Group, chief sponsor of Renault Formula 1 team, will be severing ties to the French racing team as part of the company’s drastic cost-cutting measures. ING cited the current economic crisis as the main reason for the decision.

A statement from the Dutch financial group says, “In light of the recently announced cost-reduction programme, ING confirmed today not to renew the three-year sponsorship (2007-2009) contract with Renault F1 and to end its presence in F1 beyond the 2009 season.” The group mentioned that the Renault sponsorship was the company’s first on a global scale, and it has helped ING achieve a considerable increase in global brand awareness (a 16-percent increase from March 2007 to November 2008).

ING also served as the naming-rights sponsor for various Grands Prix in the past, including the Australian and Hungarian GPs. The group also has sponsorship commitments to the New York Marathon and San Francisco Bay to Breakers, lasting through 2010.

The economic landscape is really affecting Formula 1, with sponsors leaving left and right. Even FIA itself is imposing cost-cutting measures on the teams. Hopefully, all these economic aspects don’t reduce the sport into a mere formality.

Source: Formula1

Renault is reportedly shelving future large-car production plans, starting with the end of the current model Renault Laguna large family car in 2010. This reinforces the trend of the market shifting more towards small and fuel-efficient cars that are more manageable given the current economic circumstances.

After production of the Laguna ends, Renault’s Sandouville factory will shift towards building commercial vehicles. Other models being produced in the factory, including slow-sellers like the Vel Satis hatchback and the Espace MPV, will most likely be cancelled as well.

“We will have to adapt to new market conditions, re-think individual mobility and adapt to the new trends,” said Renault boss Carlos Ghosn. “But we also think [in the medium to long term] that the oil price will remain high and there will be increased environmental concerns.”

Renault was really banking on the Laguna to make a difference. With sales being less than expected, the automaker has no choice but to pull the trigger—both on the car and on the large-car market entirely—especially after recent failures in the larger vehicle segments.

Source: Autocar

Renault will be unveiling the 2009 Renault Clio and its GT variant at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with official details released ahead of its debut and the car’s upcoming UK release in May.

The facelifted Clio gets a new headlamp layout, a broader front bumper grille, and a more-aggressive overall look. It promises a whole lot of space for the interior, along with a host of optional features that include cruise control and speed limiters. The Clio GT, on the other hand, has additional interior furnishings that include pedal covers made of drilled aluminum, seat side-supports, and GT branding on the seats. The exterior sports extended side sills, gloss black grille, and twin exhausts at back.

At the forefront of the new Clio’s features is the Carminat Tomtom navigation system. The 5.8-inch display provides the driver with easy-to-view information ranging from bird’s-eye-view maps to detailed traffic conditions and even speed limits.

I like the new-look Clio, with its updated exterior up to par with that of the Megane. Plus, the Clio GT has an exclusive color, “Malta Blue”, and it looks quite appealing.

Source: Motor Torque

To mark the start of the 2009 RBS 6 Nations Championship rugby union tournament, Renault has partnered with the French national rugby team to produce the XV de France editions of the Clio, Clio Estate and the Twingo.

The customized cars in French colors are based on the Dynamique variants of the said cars. The cars have badges on the sides and hatch, bearing the XV de France logo. Each car is also fitted with XV de France carpet mats and embroidered seats. Added extras include a leather steering wheel, tinted rear window, aluminum wheels, and a gear lever knob.

The XV de France editions also enjoy the host of equipment found in the Dynamique variants of the carsm including manual climate control, electric front windows, and electric mirrors. Extra cornering lights, and fog lamps help provide added visibility and safety features. There is an optional ‘Grand Slam package’ that includes a supporters’ pack for the 6 Nations Championship.

The Clio, Clio Estate, and Twingo XV de France editions are already on sale, but available only in—you guessed it—in France.

Source: Zer Customs

Renault has collaborated with French outdoor equipment company Lafuma to create an outdoor-equipped environment-friendly MPV – the 2009 Renault Grand Modus Lafuma.

For starters, the Grand Lotus Lafuma edition has a Renault eco2-compliant E85 bioethanol-compatible 1.2-liter 16V engine capable of 75 horsepower. Other engine variants are available, including standard TCe100 and dCi 65, 85, and 105. CO2 emissions are estimated to be around the 120g/km mark.

The Lafuma edition has a Family Pack, which includes sun blinds, climate control, and electric front windows and external mirrors, is guaranteed to be a versatile performer. It is well-suited for a variety of purposes, from traveling outdoors to camp retreats, especially with loads of storage space. There are aviation-style central overhead two-compartment lockers, as well as drawers underneath and aviation-style tables at the back of the two front seats, among others.

The special edition will come complete with a set of Lafuma outdoor baggage, for which the company is known for: a trolley bag, a backpack, and a weekend travel bag. Each of the three-piece set is made out of recycled polyester, as part of the high-quality and environment-friendly Lafuma Pure Leaf Collection.

Source: Lethistorylive

Renault is currently developing new electric cars—three to be exact—in line with the automaker’s goal of producing quality zero-emission cars, citing the high oil prices and the need for environmental protection.

The first car is a small 5-seater, which is said to have an “emotional design” that is not found in other electric cars. Perhaps this means a design that is not what would be usually associated with the design of most electric cars. It is said to be bigger than the current Renault city car, the Twingo. The second car is essentially an electric Kangoo. The third car is a four-door saloon based on the Renault Megane platform.

The cars are being slated as athlete and VIP transports for the 2012 Olympic Games to be held in London. The Megane-based electric car targets a 2011 release date, with the others should see daylight sometime earlier.

The indications are clear: Electric is the way to go. With gas prices up and the demand for green cars, automakers need to compensate and adjust their respective battle plans. Renault is three steps into this direction with these three cars.

Source: Autocar

While James May’s Dacia Sandero quips became stale by the third time they tried to spring it, he might get some new wind with the Renault Sand’Up concept. A heavily modified version of the hatchback, the Sand’Up is quite the oddity in design. One way to describe it is as a 2+2 pick-up cabrio coupe. Brain-wracking ain’t it. Just look at the darned picture.

The car is powered by a 1.6L engine that runs on ethanol and is front-wheel drive. The engine dishes out a humble 108 bhp and 109 lb-ft of torque. And I wonder why they even have to brag about the 10.6 secod 0-60 time.

To some extent, it’s quite practical for hauling stuff. It has a load bet of 1.7 m total when the rear seats are folded down. It has some swanky features too. When it’s got its manual hard-top, the car gets a split tailgate clamshell rear similar to the Renault Koleos. It’s got hydraulic doors and rear view camera side mirrors.

Source: Autocar

The talks about General Motors buying out Chrysler to put an end to everything Chrysler, some of its divisions and subsidiaries just might get to see the light of day again. It appears that Renault is interested in acquiring Jeep. Jeep’s a brand that’s considered as Chrysler’s most valuable. It’s got tradition and pedigree. So yeah, I might just have to agree. Dodge has been dodgy or a while now.

Anyway, I do wonder why Renault is intent on getting back the SUV line from Chrysler after it sold the badge together with American Motors to Chrysler in 1987 after owning it from 1979. This deal would diversify Renault’s line.

Renault admits that they do regret letting go of AMC and Jeep back in the day with Former Renault chairman Louis Schweitzer saying “It would have been clever to make full use of Jeep. If we had done so, we would have been in a good position today in the U.S.”

Source: Reuters

Yup. More Renault news for today. Aside from the new Megane, Renault will also be bringing their potential hybrid market offering to the Paris Motor Show – the Ondelios. However, unlike the Prius or the Volt or the lot of sedan hybrids out there, the Ondelios is a six-seater crossover.

So first important details first. It’s a hybrid. So how low (in terms of fuel consumption) does it go? Renault mated a 200 bhp 2.0L DCi diesel engine to two(!) 20kW electric motors situated at the front and back of the car. The car uses regenerative braking to charge the batteries. Mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the combination gives the Ondelios the capability to go from standstill to 62mph in just 7.8 seconds. And to answer the real question – 63 mpg!

If you think 7.8 seconds is slow, mind you that this car is envisioned to be a “high-end crossover.” And to fit six people (3 rows of 2) on individually adjustable seats, the Ondelios is a sizable specimen – 4.8m long, 1.6m high and rides on massive 23-inch wheels.

A few more things that supposedly make this high-end: digital speedo, a dash equipped with a monitor displaying feeds from door-mirror cameras. Samsung lent their gadgets for passenger entertainment. You can gain access James Bond-ish via mobile phone. And if you miss the DeLorean, this baby’s got gullwing doors.

And yes, people. Let me remind you that this is a hybrid.

Source: Renault

I was hesitating to post about the third-gen Renault Megane since it was leaked last week but fortunately for me, Renault has finally revealed full details prior to its debut in the Paris Motor Show next month.

It’s nice to see how quickly Renault was able to follow-up on this. First coming out as the Megane Coupe Concept in Geneva earlier this year. While not exclusively offered as a coupe, the new Megane is poised to take on the Ford Focus with the choice between a three-door and a five-door model.

Like many mass-marketed cars today, the Megane will have a wide range of powerhouses. The gas engine lineup includes a 1.6L engines that produce 99 bhp and 108 bhp, a 2.0L one capable of 138 bhp, and the Renault 1.4L TCe engine that produces 128 bhp but with lower emissions. With the gas crisis and all, a diesel lineup will also be available which includes a Dci 85, 80, 105, 110, 130, 150, and 160. So thats… 11 engine choices all in all.

If you still think hatches aren’t safe (which is so 20 years ago), the safety equipment includes ABS, stability control, understeer control, visual seatbelt reminders, a tire pressure monitoring system, and just in case you crash this thing, airbags that protect your thorax and pelvis and headrests that stabilize your head.

Renault didn’t skimp out on placing some goodies in the car. The dash is really 21st century – digital complete with a speed limiter mode that bugs you when you’re about to be flagged by the cops for speeding. There’s also hands-free entry and ignition, climate control and a sat-nav.

The new Megane will be on sale starting next year. Whether it will be able to duke it out with the Focus will yet to be determined but with these goodies, I think the Megane will be a choice for the Euro market. I can’t wait for their follow-up to the Renaultsport R26.

Source: Renault

Two trends recently – small cars with a premium and small cars for small budgets. The MINI and its many versions, the Fiat Abarth, and a host of other small cars pack the punch for a price. Toyota has recently just announce their price bumps which included their fleet’s small car, the Yaris. A while back, Tata has decided to shake things up with a budget people car coming in the $2,000 price range.

I am quite confused as to which direction the small car market will go but Tata might just make a killing with such an ultra-budget car. Hyundai is trying to give the Nano a run for its money by pushing forward safety issues. Still, I’m pretty much sure that depending on the market demand for these small budget cars, these companies will be forced to try to create the best compromise between size, performance, cost, and safety. And this recent announcement by Renault seems to be promising – a $2,500 budget car that is also aimed to compete with the Nano.

Mr. Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj and Mr. Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Renault and President and CEO of Nissan, today announced they will form a joint-venture company to develop, produce and market the car code-named ULC with wholesale price range starting from 2500 USD. The new joint-venture company will be 50% owned by Bajaj Auto, 25% by Renault and 25% by Nissan.

Targeting the growing Indian new vehicle market, the ULC will be made at an all-new plant to be constructed in Chakan (Maharashtra state) in India. Initial planned capacity will be 400,000 units per year. Sales will start in early 2011 in India, as a primary market, with growth potential in other emerging markets around the world.

Source: Renault-Nissan Alliance

Renault will be presenting their first ever crossover in Geneva Motor Show. This release would then complete their line-up for the C-segment market. It’s kind of weird since this is Renault we’re talking about. The crossover, dubbed the Koleos, was designed by Renault, developed by Nissan, and made in the Renault Samsung Motors plant in Korea.

The Renault Koleos will be powered by a choice among 2.5L 175hp gasoline engine and two 2.0 dCi diesel engines capable of 150 and 175hp (all Euro 4 compliant, by the way). These can be mated to six-speed manuals and selected markets get a six-speed automatic option.

Performance and safety features include ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist, four-wheel drive, and ESP with understeer control.

Source: Renault

The Renault Kangoo’s been around for some time now. If you really haven’t heard about it you might just have to ask what’s up with car names these days. It seem like even the Web 2.0 craze has infected automakers and how they dub their latest set of wheels. What’s the last one, the Ford Kuga? At least the Kangoo (that’s kangaroo without the “ar”) is just getting a twist this time around.

Formerly known as an MPV, Renault is set to debut a different kind of Kangoo with the Kangoo Compact Concept. Yes, it’s a squashed people mover with an overall length of 3.9m, a height of 1.7m, a width of 1.86m and weighs 1.225 kg. You just have to wonder why the heck did Renault bother giving the Kangoo a makeover and push it in the fray of compact cars especially with this partnership with the in-line skating company, Rollerblade.

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The New Renault Laguna will definitely be seen in Frankfurt this September, Renault assures us all. What’s more interesting is that, two months after giving us specs, details, and photos, Renault released a press release hyping the New Laguna as if stressing the point that the Laguna will be a quality car that combines the usual power-comfort-elegance route.

Depending on the option, the Laguna may have the 130 and 175 hp versions of the 2.0L dCi paired with Renault’s AJO automatic transmission. There’s also 1.5L dCi 110 hp which gets about 5.1 liters/100km. Another engine developed by Renault and Nissan, a 145 hp 2.0 16V gasoline engine lauded for its hushed down acoustics.

Renault has also put in much work on creating a comfortable ride with improved handling and a nice interior. Features include parking assistance, cruise control, navigation system, and optional trims.

Source: World Car Fans