Lotus Renault GP: Aiming for the top step of the podium

Lotus Renault GP team principal Eric Boullier is in town, together with Lotus brand ambassador and ex- F1 driver Jean Alesi and Gino Rosato, Director of Corporate Operations at Group Lotus. GL organised a brief press conference at Pavilion KL this afternoon, and the lunch function was joined by LRGP’s reserve driver Fairuz Fauzy.

There wasn’t much time as they were rushing to attend the next function (launch of the F1 Malaysian GP, also at Pavilion) and there was a big media group, but we did get a few words out of the tired visitors.

Lotus Renault GP: Aiming for the top step of the podium
Jean Alesi (left) jokingly offers his services to Eric Boullier’s Lotus Renault GP

Frenchman Boullier, who in the past managed A1 Team France, reiterated that Lotus Renault’s target this year is to be challenging for a podium spot. “We aim to win some races and be a regular on the podium,” he proclaimed. Eric’s predictions for the season opening race in Australia? “I can see Red Bull and Ferrari in front, then I hope we’ll be leading the troops,” he said with a smile.

Lotus Renault GP: Aiming for the top step of the podiumBoullier, who did not want to comment on the Lotus name row with Team Lotus, was consistent. We previously carried this quote from him: “We want to win with this car. To win you need to be a regular podium finisher – and then you will win – and that is our target”. He also said that while we can’t look too much into the test sessions that the teams went through so far, this week’s test in Barcelona would be close to the car’s real performance.

Jean Alesi, who could pass off as a younger Sylvester Stallone, explained his role in Lotus to us. The ex-Ferrari and Benetton driver said that he’s happy to be part of something new.

“It’s a great opportunity. Lotus Cars is an iconic brand and everything is starting from scratch,” referring to the brand turnaround led by Dany Bahar. “I’m extremely happy – it’s the beginning and you’re part of it,” he went on.

Alesi’s role is to help develop the Exos Type 125 “F1 for customers” car. Gino Rosato explained that the Frenchman was chosen as “he’s one of the most passionate driver’s in the business”. Alesi isn’t involved in the F1 team, but “if Lotus needs me I’ll be available,” he said with a naughty smile to Boullier.

Lotus Renault GP: Aiming for the top step of the podium

Some press members asked the panel if Fairuz Fauzy will get a chance to drive for the team, and here’s what Boullier had to say: “Fairuz is realistic. He’s with us to learn from a big team. We believe he can race one day”.

The Malaysian added that this new position is an upgrade for him. “It’s a move forward for me. I will learn a lot from a more experienced and stronger team. My target is to do well in GP2 this year,” he said.

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