Renault Contemplates Transition from F1 to Hydrogen Power Future in Viry-Chatillon
Key Ideas
  • Renault's evaluation study at Viry-Chatillon engine facility hints at a shift away from Formula 1 towards new technologies like hydrogen power.
  • Senior engineers and staff are likely to be redirected to work on hydrogen power and other advanced technologies to ensure a future for the facility.
  • Alpine F1 team may transition to a customer team with Mercedes, potentially beginning the partnership as early as 2025, under the advisement of Flavio Briatore.
  • Renault's potential exit from F1 engine production after being involved since 1977 would mark a significant historic moment for the company.
Renault is currently conducting an evaluation study at its Viry-Chatillon engine facility to determine the future focus of the facility. The study suggests a possible transition away from its Formula 1 power unit project towards new technologies like hydrogen power and further battery technology work. This move is aimed at ensuring that the facility remains central to Renault's sporting and automotive activities even if its F1 involvement ceases. The study also aims to provide a plan that would allow the current staff, particularly those involved in the F1 project, to have a future with the company. Flavio Briatore, the new Alpine F1 advisor, is reportedly advising Renault's senior management to shift towards becoming a customer team, moving away from manufacturing its own engine. Alpine is nearing a deal with Mercedes to become a customer team for the upcoming rules era starting in 2026, similar to the partnership between Aston Martin and Mercedes. There is a possibility that elements of this partnership could begin as early as 2025 if terms are agreed upon swiftly. Renault's potential exit from F1 engine production would mark a significant moment in its history, given its involvement in Formula 1 in some capacity since 1977. Despite these developments, Renault has not provided official comments on the situation at Viry-Chatillon, preferring not to engage in speculation about the future. Team principal Bruno Famin emphasized the importance of respecting the work at Viry and refraining from commenting on rumors about the company's future plans.
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