Renault launches R30, announces Russian driver

Renault F1 Team has unveiled its 2010 challenger, the R30, at the Valencia circuit. With the departure of title sponsor ING, Renault was free to choose a colour scheme, and has opted for yellow-black “Bumblebee” style livery that recalls the firm’s F1 cars from the 80s. Reminds us a little of the Jordan team too!

Main driver Robert Kubica was on hand to unveil the R30 with Team Principal Eric Boullier. Renault also presented Vitaly Petrov as Kubica’s teammate for the 2010 season. The 25-year-old finished as runner-up in the GP2 Series last year and becomes the first Russian driver to race in Formula 1. Also present were the team’s third driver, Ho-Pin Tung and reserve driver, Jérôme d’Ambrosio. Another reserve driver, Jan Charouz from Czech Republic, was unable to attend the ceremony.

The R30’s rear end has been reworked to allow the car to make the most of the ‘double-decker’ diffusers that were first seen last year. Changes have also been made to the architecture of the chassis to adapt to the refuelling ban, which requires a much larger fuel tank.

“We’ve been working flat-out during the winter to ensure that we begin the new season in the best shape possible. The R30 should be a competitive, strong and reliable car, and we’ve opted for an aggressive development strategy throughout the season. Now we’re here ready for the first test and we’re all excited to see if the car performs as we think it will,” Boullier said.

Renault will remain in Valencia until Wednesday evening to complete the first pre-season test session. More pictures and a video after the jump.

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