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Formula Renault
View on WikipediaFormula Renault are classes of formula racing popular in Europe and elsewhere. Regarded as an entry-level series to motor racing, it was founded in 1971,[1] and was a respected series where drivers can learn advanced racecraft before moving on to higher formulas.
Renault now backs the French F4 Championship and Formula Regional European Championship. The World Series by Renault once included Formula Renault 3.5 before becoming World Series Formula V8 3.5 in 2016, then folding in 2017.
Formula Renault 3.5L
[edit]The most senior "Formula Renault" was the Formula Renault V6 Eurocup started by Renault to run as part of Eurosport's Super Racing Weekends (ETCC and FIA GT Championship). Only two seasons were run between 2003 and 2004 before Renault left Super Racing Weekends and merged the series with the similar World Series by Nissan to create the Formula Renault 3.5 Series as part of the World Series by Renault in 2005. In 2016 the series became the World Series Formula V8 3.5, which folded in 2017.
Formula V6 Asia started in 2006 in Asia and ran at Asian Festival of Speed Weekends (Touring Car, Formula BMW and Porsche Carrera Cup Asia).
The old Eurocup and current Asian formulas use Tatuus chassis, while the World Series uses Dallara cars. Michelin is the tyre supplier.
The cars
[edit]- Engine: Renault Type V4Y RS, 60° V6, 3498 cc, 425-500 hp - since 2012 Zytek ZRS03 V8, 3396 cc, 530 hp
- Chassis: Tatuus (Eurocup and Asia) or Dallara T02/T05/T08/T12 (World Series) Carbon-fibre Monocoque, carbon and fibreglass bodywork
- Width: 1850 mm (72.8") maximum
- Wheelbase: 3000–3125 mm
- Track: 1579 mm (front) and 1536 mm (rear)
- Weight: 616 kg
- Fuel: 110 litres
- Suspension front and rear with torsion bar, push-rod, twin struts
- Telemetry, and steering wheel
- Sequential gearbox, six gears
- Wheels: Single piece magnesium with central nut, 10 x 13 (front) and 13 x 13 (rear)
- Tyres: Michelin dry and rain, 24 x 57 x 13 (front) and 31 x 60 x 13 (rear)
Championships
[edit]| Formula Renault 3.5L official championships | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone/Country | Last official series name | Active years | Tyres | Complementary information | |
| World Series by Nissan | 1998–2004 | M | Replaced by Formula Renault 3.5 Series. | ||
| Formula Renault V6 Eurocup | 2003–2004 | M | Replaced by Formula Renault 3.5 Series. | ||
| Formula Renault 3.5 Series (part of World Series by Renault) | 2005-2017 | M | |||
| Formula V6 Asia | 2006–2009 | M | |||
A Pan Am Formula Renault V6 series was planned to take place in 2005 but it never occurred.[2]
Formula Renault 2.0
[edit]Formula Renault 2.0 descended from Formula France created in 1968. Its predecessors used 1.3L (1968–1971), 1.6L (1972–1981), 1.6L turbo (1982–1988) and later 1,721 cc (1989–1994), then 2l 8V (1995–1999) engines in single-seater chassis. The series evolved in 2000 into a 2L 16V series using one-make cars from Italian manufacturer Tatuus. The series was introduced into the UK in 1989 and even after the 1721 cc cars had been replaced at the top level a club-level series for them continued in parallel with the more ambitious 2.0 series. This is seen as one of the key steps in a driver's career before Formula Three.
The most notable recent graduate of the formula is Kimi Räikkönen, who moved straight into Formula One after winning the British Formula Renault championship.
The cars
[edit]1995–1999
[edit]The Formula Renault 95 used multiple chassis, production 2.0-litre 8V 165 hp engines and Hewland five-speed manual gearboxes. Manufacturers were able to build cars around spec components such as the engine, bellhousing, gearbox, brakes, wheels and ECU. Chassis were steel space frame with fibreglass bodies. Manufacturers included Mygale, Martini, Swift, Tatuus, and Ermolli. The car was last used in 1999.
2000–2009
[edit]
The Formula Renault 2000 had a Tatuus-made chassis running 2.0 L Renault Clio engines attached to a Sadev gearbox.[3] The engine originally had a maximum output of 185 hp, and was upgraded to 210 hp in 2006. They are capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.85 seconds and braking from 200km/h (124 mph) to a stop in 4.60 seconds.[4] The Tatuus Formula Renault car is the most successful single seater ever, with 10 years of service and nearly 1000 sold. The car has produced many current Formula One stars, with 11 of the 25 drivers in the 2009 Formula One season using the car in the infancy of their careers.
For the 2010 season, a new car developed by Barazi-Epsilon, will be used in most major championships, with the old car still being used in minor championships such as Formula Renault BARC in the UK.
Dimensions and weight
[edit]- Wheel Base: 2,645 mm
- Front Track: 1,434 mm
- Rear Track: 1,318 mm
- Minimum Weight: 490 kg without driver / 565 kg with driver
Chassis
[edit]The chassis is a carbon fiber cell designed and developed by Tatuus and Renault Sport. It also incorporates a FIA-approved roll hoop and lateral driver's head protection. This was introduced in 2000 and updated with new bodywork in 2004 and 2007. Both the chassis and engine are of an FIA-approved "impact break-away" design.
Cockpit
[edit]- XAP Multi-Changeable Dashboard Display
- FIA-approved Safety Features
- Roll Hoop and Lateral Driver's Head Protective Padding
- Deformable, double-jointed steering column
- Removable steering wheel
- Six-point, 3-inch driver's shoulder and lap harnesses
- FT3 fuel cell
- Manually operated 5 kg fire extinguisher
Engine
[edit]The engine is a sealed, 16-valve, 4-cylinder Renault Sport type F4R FRS with Orbisoud race exhaust system and catalytic converter, built and developed by Renault Sport.
- Capacity: 1998 cc
- Max Output: 192 bhp (143 kW) at 6,500 rpm
- Max Torque: 22mkg (159lb.ft) at 5,500 rpm
- Lubrication: Dry Sump, Elf Evolution LDX 5w/40
- Spark Plugs: NGK PFR6E10
- ECU: Sealed Magneti-Marelli MF4L ignition system
Gearbox
[edit]Formula Renault uses a Sadev 6-speed, sequential gearbox with mechanical control featuring three specified sets of ratios using a Limited Slip Differential and Twin-Plate. The clutch is hydraulic. It also uses Elf Transmission LS.
Suspension
[edit]- Front: Pushrod, controlled single damper with adjustable bump and rebound
- Rear: Pushrod, controlled twin dampers with adjustable bump and rebound
Brake
[edit]The brakes are four-pot calipers, with ventilated discs and Ferodo(type DS4003) pads. They include cockpit-adjustable bias front-to-rear.
Tyres
[edit]- Front: 16/53 x 13 inches (330 mm)
- Rear: 23/57 x 13 inches (330 mm)
- Manufacturer: Michelin control
- Exceptions
- Asia: Kumho (since 2002)
- Brazil: Pirelli (2002–2006)
- North America: Yokohama (since 2004)
Wheels
[edit]- Front: 8 inches x 13 inches (330 mm)
- Rear: 10 inches x 13 inches (330 mm)
- Manufacturer: OZ
2010–present
[edit]Manufactured by Barazi-Epsilon EB01 A
Main changes to the previous models are:
- Engine: 2.0L Renault F4R 832 - maximal output has been raised to 210 bhp (160 kW)
- Gearbox is now 7-speed sequential
Championships
[edit]Two sorts of Formula Renault 2.0 championships exist. Regular championships and Winter Series, an off-season championship held usually between November and February with few races. In 2005, all series names were replaced from Formula Renault 2000 to Formula Renault 2.0.
An Uruguyan 2.0L series is also held (José Pedro Passadores 2003 champion).[5]
Winners
[edit]A majority of Formula Renault champions have gone onto lead successful careers in motor racing, most notably Alain Prost who won the Formula One World Championship four times in his career. Other drivers include Didier Pironi, Kimi Räikkönen, Felipe Massa and Lewis Hamilton all of whom have gone onto win Grands Prix.
Formula Renault 2.0L timeline
[edit]- "FR" = Formula Renault ; italic = Former series ; "Winter series" or "Winter" or "W" = Winter series of the above series
- (a) = Formula Renault 2000 Masters; (b) = Formula Renault 2000 Eurocup; (c) = Formula Renault 2.0 Germany ; (d) = Formula Renault 2.0 Netherlands ; (e) = Renault Speed Trophy F2000; (f) = North American Fran Am 2000 Pro Championship; (g) = Rencontres Internationales de Formule Renault
Formula Renault 1.6L
[edit]
This Formula Renault series was open to drivers between 14 and 21 years that have raced before in karting series.[8]
The cars
[edit]The cars use K4M 1598cc Renault engines.
Championships
[edit]| Formula Renault 1.6L official championships | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Europe | |||||
| Zone/Country | Last official series name | Active years | Tyres | Complementary information | |
| Formula Renault 1.6 Belgium | 2003–2007 | M | Former name: Formula Renault 1600 Belgium. Reguled by the Royal Automobile Club of Belgium | ||
| F4 Eurocup 1.6 (part of World Series by Renault) | 1993-2017 | M | Former names: Championnat de France FFSA Formule Campus Renault Elf, Formul'Academy Euro Series. The series is managed by La Filière Elf since 1993, La Filière FFSA since 2001 and by the Auto Sport Academy based near the Circuit Bugatti in Le Mans since 2008. | ||
| Formula Junior 1.6 powered by Renault | 2002–2006 | M | Former name: Formula Junior 1600 by Renault. In 2007, it was replaced by Formula Monza 1.6 and 1.2 powered by Fiat engine. | ||
| Formula Renault 1.6 Spain | 2002–2004 | M | Former name: Formula Junior 1600 Spain | ||
| Formula Renault 1.6 NEC Junior | 2013–2014 | K | |||
| Formula Renault 1.6 Nordic | 2013–2015 | D M |
Series supporting STCC. Used Dunlop tyres during 2013–2014 season, changed to Michelin for 2015 following its parent series. Will continue in 2016 without Renault support. | ||
| America | |||||
| Zone/Country | Last official series name | Active years | Tyres | Complementary information | |
| Formula Renault Elf 1.6 Argentina | 2007-2009 | M | Replaced in 2010 by FR 2.0 | ||
| Formula Junior 1600 | 2005–2007 | M | |||
| North American Fran Am 1600 Pro Championship | 2002–2003 | M | Replaced by Formula TR 1600 Pro Series | ||
| Formula TR 1600 Pro Series | 2004–2007 | Y | Held on west coast only. | ||
Winners
[edit]| Formula Renault 1.6L championships winners | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Latin America[13] | ||||||||
| 2010 | |||||||||
| 2009 | |||||||||
| 2008 | |||||||||
| 2007 | |||||||||
| 2006 | |||||||||
| 2005 | |||||||||
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| 2003 | |||||||||
| 2002 | |||||||||
| 2001 | |||||||||
| 2000 | |||||||||
| 1999 | |||||||||
| 1998 | |||||||||
| 1997 | |||||||||
| 1996 | |||||||||
| 1995 | |||||||||
| 1994 | |||||||||
| 1993 | |||||||||
| 1992 | |||||||||
| 1991 | |||||||||
| 1990 | |||||||||
| 1989 | |||||||||
| 1988 | |||||||||
| 1987 | |||||||||
| 1986 | |||||||||
| 1985 | |||||||||
| 1984 | |||||||||
| 1983 | |||||||||
| 1982 | |||||||||
| 1981 | |||||||||
| 1980 | |||||||||
- Only white square represent held championships.
- Small name and flag represent Winter Series winner.
Formula Renault 1.6L timeline
[edit]| Formulas Renault 1.6L timeline | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1980s | 1990s | 2000s | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 80 | 81 | 82 | 83 | 84 | 85 | 86 | 87 | 88 | 89 | 90 | 91 | 92 | 93 | 94 | 95 | 96 | 97 | 98 | 99 | 00 | 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | |
| Argentina | Formula Renault Argentina | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| France | Formula Campus Renault La Filière Elf |
Formula Campus Renault La Filière FFSA |
Formul' Academy | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| North America | Fran Am 1600 Pro | Formula TR 1600 Pro Series | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Italy | FJ 1600 by Renault |
Formula Junior 1.6 by Renault | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Spain | FJ 1600 Spain | FR 1.6 Spain | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Belgium | FR 1600 Belgium | FR 1.6 Belgium | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Latin America | Formula Junior 1600 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 80 | 81 | 82 | 83 | 84 | 85 | 86 | 87 | 88 | 89 | 90 | 91 | 92 | 93 | 94 | 95 | 96 | 97 | 98 | 99 | 00 | 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | |
| 1980s | 1990s | 2000s | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
- "FR" = Formula Renault ; "FJ" = Formula Junior ; italic = Former series
Other formulas powered by Renault
[edit]
Argentina organises several Formula Renault championships different from its official 2.0L series:
- Fórmula Renault Plus (since 2007) with Renault Clio K4M engine (1598cc).
- Fórmula Renault Interprovincial (since 2007) with 1.397 cc engine from Renault 12 T.S Break.[18]
- Fórmula 4 Nacional (in 2007) with Renault K4M engine (1598cc) with lower power than the official 1.6L series. Teams can choose chassis manufacturer. Races are held during the TC 2000 weekends.
- Fórmula 4 Metropolitana (since 2008 season) with Renault K4M engine (1598cc) and replacing the Fórmula 4 Nacional series. Teams can choose chassis manufacturer.
- Fórmula Super Renault with Dallara, Reynard, Ralt or TOM'S chassis and Renault 21, 18 or F3R 2.0L engine.[19] In 2005, the championship wasn't held due to low participation.[20]
In 2008, the Formula 2000 Light was created.[21] The series is held in Italy with Tatuus's Formula Renault or Formula Three chassis. The same year also saw the introduction of the LATAM Challenge Series, run in Latin America. The Austria Formel Renault Cup has been held since 2007 in Central Europe.[22] This series is held and organised with the Austria Formula 3 Cup and use the 2.0L Renault formulas. The Formule Renault 2.0 North European Zone was also introduced in 2008.
2008 was the first, and ultimately last, season of the Formula Asia 2.0.[citation needed][23] Its aim was to bring more racing to the Asian region, allowing more drivers to opportunity to race and make the step up to the next level.[citation needed] The series used Renault engines with constructor Tatuus and ran on Michelin provided tyres.[citation needed]
Winners
[edit]For GP Series winners, see GP2 Series, GP2 Asia Series and GP3 Series pages.
| Other formulas powered by Renault championships winners | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Formel Renault Cup |
Formule Renault 2.0 North European Zone |
2000 Light |
Formula Asia 2.0 |
Super Renault/ Renault Plus |
Metropolitana/ Nacional |
Interprovencial |
Challenge Series | ||
| 2010 | ||||||||||
| 2009 | not held | |||||||||
| 2008 | ||||||||||
| 2007 | not held | not held | not held | not held | ||||||
| 2006 | not held | not held | not held | |||||||
| 2005 | not held[20] | |||||||||
| 2004 | ||||||||||
| 2003 | ||||||||||
| 2002 | ||||||||||
| 2001 | ? | |||||||||
| 2000 | ? | |||||||||
| 1999 | ? | |||||||||
| 1998 | ? | |||||||||
| 1997 | ||||||||||
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "2010 Formula Renault 2.0 Press Kit" (PDF). Renault Sport. Archived from the original (PDF) on 12 January 2015. Retrieved 16 April 2013.
- ^ PanAm FR attracting international interest Archived 28 June 2008 at the Wayback Machine theraceforum.com (2005-03-18)
- ^ Technical specifications from the Euroseries
- ^ Technical specifications from the UK series
- ^ PASSADORE CAMPEÓN F.2000 URUGUAYA Archived 31 May 2011 at the Wayback Machine autonoticias.com.ar (14 December 2003)
- ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 25 February 2009. Retrieved 6 February 2009.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) - ^ [AutoHebdo n°1745 24 March 2010, page 12, Philippe Sinault (Signature), announced the 2010 Formula Renault WEC cancellation]
- ^ Belgian 1.6 Presentation[permanent dead link] renault-sport.be
- ^ FR1.6 Argentina Campeones Archived 10 June 2009 at the Wayback Machine apefa.com.ar
- ^ Formule Campus et Academy Palmares Archived 23 September 2015 at the Wayback Machine autosportacademy.com
- ^ a b c Driver database driverdb.com
- ^ FR1.6 Italia Classifica Archived 15 January 2008 at the Wayback Machine nuvolari3000.com
- ^ PanmGPSeries Anos anteriores Archived 10 March 2008 at the Wayback Machine sporcar.com
- ^ 1600: Colin Braun takes championship Archived 6 June 2011 at the Wayback Machine motorsport.com (27 October 2003)
- ^ 1600: Series celebrates successful first year Archived 6 June 2011 at the Wayback Machine motorsport.com (27 November 2002)
- ^ first woman to win a single seater Archived 4 November 2007 at the Wayback Machine renault-sport.be (2007-10-15)
- ^ "EU 2.0 Paul Ricard test summary". motorsport.com. Archived from the original on 6 June 2011. Retrieved 7 November 2007.
- ^ FR Interprovincial, Reglamento Archived 7 February 2011 at the Wayback Machine frinterprovincial.com
- ^ NAace la Super Formula Argentina Archived 31 May 2011 at the Wayback Machine autonoticias.com.ar (1 February 2005)
- ^ a b En el 2005 no habra Super Renault Archived 31 May 2011 at the Wayback Machine autonoticias.com.ar (28 December 2004)
- ^ "Formula 2000 Light > Home". Archived from the original on 18 March 2008. Retrieved 1 April 2008. formula2000light.com
- ^ Historie Archived 7 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine austriaf3cup.com
- ^ Dghti, Raffla. "Formula Asia 2.0 Championship History: Clarifying the Record and Providing Verified Sources".
- ^ Borsani campeón 2006 Archived 17 June 2009 at the Wayback Machine campfsr.com.ar
- ^ En Mar del Plata, la alegría fue para Perabó formulas-argentinas.com.ar
- ^ F.Super Renault – Lifschitz campeon Archived 31 May 2011 at the Wayback Machine autonoticias.com.ar (6 December 2003)
- ^ Rossi, Matías Archived 12 September 2008 at the Wayback Machine actc.org.ar
External links
[edit]- (in English) Renault Sport Archived 20 September 2004 at the Wayback Machine
Formula Renault 3.5L
[edit]- (in English) World Series by Renault
- (in English) Eurocup Formula Renault V6 former-series
- (in English) Formula V6 Asia
Formula Renault 2.0L
[edit]- Europe
- (in English) Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 renault-sport.com
- (in French) French Formula Renault 2.0 Archived 17 July 2007 at the Wayback Machine renault-sport.com
- (in English) Formula Renault 2.0 UK renaultsport.co.uk
- (in English) BARC Formula Renault BARC barc.net
- (in English) BARC Formula Renault renault-sport.uk
- (in Italian) Formula Renault 2.0 Italy renaultsportitalia.it
- (in English) Formula Renault 2.0 WEC formularenaultwec.com
- (in English) Formula Renault 2.0 NEC necup.com
- (in German) Formula Renault 2.0 NEC renault-sport.de
- (in French) Formula Renault 2.0 Switzerland Archived 3 March 2016 at the Wayback Machine worldseriesbyrenault.ch
- (in English) Formula Renault 2.0 Finland rata-sm.fi
- (in Portuguese) Fórmula Júnior FR2.0 Portugal formulajunior.net
- America
- (in English) Formula TR Pro Series formulatr.com (USA)
- (in Spanish) Formula Renault 2000 de America Archived 11 January 2007 at the Wayback Machine PanamGPSeries.com (Latin America)
- (in Spanish) Mexican Formula Renault Championship copacorona.com (former series).
- Asia
- (in English) Asian Formula Renault Challenge Archived 26 November 2012 at the Wayback Machine frdsports.com
- (in English) Chinese Formula Renault Archived 14 July 2014 at the Wayback Machine frdsports.com
Formula Renault 1.6L
[edit]- Europe
- (in French) Formul'Academy Archived 12 August 2016 at the Wayback Machine autosportacademy.com
- (in English) Formula 1.6 Belgium[permanent dead link] renault-sport.be
- (in English) Formula 1.6 NEC Junior frcup.com
- America
- (in Spanish) Formula Renault 1.6 Argentina Archived 25 November 2012 at the Wayback Machine formulas-argentinas.com.ar
- (in Spanish) APEFA apefa.com.ar
- (in English) Formula TR Pro Series formulatr.com (USA)
- (in Spanish) Formula Junior 1600 Archived 11 January 2007 at the Wayback Machine PanamGPSeries.com (Latin America)
Other formulas powered by Renault
[edit]- Europe
- (Austrian) Austria Formel Renault Cup f3.motion-company.eu (2.0L)
- (in Italian) Formula 2000 Light formula2000light.com (2.0L, Italy)
- America
- (in Spanish) Formula Super Renault Argentina campfsr.com.ar (2.0L)
- (in Spanish) Formula Renault Interprovencial and Plus frinterprovincial.com (1.6L, Argentina)
- Asia
- (in English) GP2 Asia Series[dead link] gp2series.com (4L V8)
- (in English) Formula Asia 2.0 formulaasia2.com (2.0L)
Formula Renault
View on GrokipediaOverview and History
Founding and Purpose
Formula Renault was established in 1971 by Renault as a direct successor to the short-lived Formula France series, which had operated from 1968 to 1970 as an affordable entry-level single-seater championship using Renault components.[5] This renaming and rebranding under Renault's banner aimed to create a more structured and manufacturer-backed platform for young drivers, building on the foundational principles of cost-effective racing introduced by its predecessor.[5] The primary purpose of Formula Renault was to serve as a feeder series to higher levels of motorsport, such as Formula 3 and ultimately Formula 1, by providing aspiring drivers with accessible training in advanced racecraft while emphasizing Renault's dedication to talent development.[2] By controlling costs through standardized equipment and engines, the series sought to level the playing field, allowing skill and strategy to determine success rather than financial resources, and Renault committed to fostering the next generation of racers through this initiative.[5] Following its launch, Formula Renault experienced rapid growth across Europe, with the national championship commencing in France in 1971 and expansions to other countries in the 1970s, including the introduction of the Challenge Européen de Formule Renault in 1972 that involved participants from Belgium, the Netherlands, and others.[5] The United Kingdom series began in 1989, and Italy in 2000. All were powered by Renault engines of 1.3L displacement initially, shifting to 1.6L by 1972. Central to the series' design were standardization principles, including fixed chassis specifications, uniform Renault engines, and gearboxes, which ensured equitable competition and minimized development costs, with Renault offering direct technical support to participants.[5] These elements would later influence the progression to variants with larger engines, such as 2.0L and 3.5L displacements.[2]Evolution and Key Milestones
Formula Renault began as a French national series in 1971, featuring 1.3-liter engines designed to provide an affordable entry point into single-seater racing.[1] The series quickly evolved its technical specifications to balance performance and cost; engine displacement increased to 1.6 liters in 1972, remaining the standard through the 1970s and most of the 1980s, including a turbocharged variant from 1982 to 1988 that boosted power while maintaining accessibility for young drivers. By 1989, the displacement shifted to 1.721 liters, paving the way for the adoption of 2.0-liter engines in the 1990s, which became the cornerstone of the Formula Renault 2.0 class and supported national and regional championships worldwide.[1] In the 2000s, the category diversified to address varying driver development needs and global interest. A 1.6-liter junior class emerged in 2013, offering a lower-power stepping stone from karting with engines producing approximately 140 horsepower, ideal for newcomers in series like the Formula Renault 1.6 ALPS.[6] Simultaneously, the senior tier advanced with the introduction of the 3.5-liter class in 2005, featuring V6 engines delivering over 450 horsepower, integrated into the newly formed World Series by Renault—a unified platform that merged the Eurocup Formula Renault V6 with the existing World Series to streamline events and enhance visibility. This period also marked significant global expansion, including the establishment of Formula Renault Americas in 2004 and the launch of the Formula V6 Asia by Renault in 2006 to foster talent in the region.[3][7][8] Renault Sport assumed a pivotal role in managing the series from its early days, standardizing technical regulations, organizing championships, and fostering partnerships with chassis builders to ensure consistency and innovation. Collaborations with Tatuus for the Formula Renault 2.0 chassis, introduced in the late 1990s, and Dallara for the higher-powered 3.5-liter cars emphasized cost-effective, high-performance designs; notably, the adoption of carbon-fiber monocoques around 2000 in models like the Tatuus FR2000 improved safety and reduced weight without escalating expenses. To counter rising costs in the mid-2000s, adaptations included incremental power boosts—such as elevating the 2.0-liter engine output from 185 horsepower to 210 horsepower in 2006—and selective tire supplier changes to maintain affordability while preserving competitive balance.[9] These evolutions solidified Formula Renault's reputation as a vital feeder series, nurturing talents like Kimi Räikkönen and Lewis Hamilton through the mid-2010s.[10]Formula Renault 3.5
Technical Specifications
The Formula Renault 3.5 cars featured a carbon fiber monocoque chassis built by Dallara, with models including the T08 (used 2008–2011) and the evolved T12 (introduced in 2012 for improved aerodynamics and safety). These spec chassis emphasized equal competition and driver development in a high-performance environment.[11] The powertrain evolved during the series: from 2005 to 2011, a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter Renault V6 engine (based on the VQ35DE) produced around 480 hp (358 kW) at 7,500 rpm; from 2012 onward, a 3.4-liter Zytek/Gibson V8 delivered 530 hp (395 kW) at 9,250 rpm and 440 Nm of torque, with a redline of 9,500 rpm, prioritizing reliability and performance close to GP2/F1 levels.[12][13][14] The rear-wheel-drive layout included a six-speed sequential paddle-shift gearbox (Sadev or Xtrac) with a limited-slip differential for precise handling. Tires were Michelin slicks, sized for optimal grip on dry circuits, supporting the series' focus on tire strategy in feature races. Performance suited the category as a direct feeder to higher formulas, with a minimum weight of 623 kg (including driver), top speeds exceeding 300 km/h, and 0–100 km/h acceleration in approximately 2.9 seconds. Design priorities balanced power with controllable aerodynamics via adjustable wings.[15][16] Safety complied with FIA standards, featuring an integrated roll cage, energy-absorbing monocoque, and fire suppression system; later chassis incorporated updated front impact structures.Championship History and Results
The Formula Renault 3.5 Series originated as the European-focused World Series by Nissan in 1998, evolving into a key development category for aspiring Formula 1 drivers with its high-power, cost-controlled formula cars. In 2005, Renault Sport acquired the series, rebranding it as Formula Renault 3.5 and integrating it into the broader World Series by Renault platform, which ran until 2015 and emphasized multi-category events across Europe. An accompanying Asian winter series, known as Formula V6 Asia by Renault, operated from 2006 to 2009, featuring similar chassis and engines to provide off-season competition in markets like Malaysia and China. Following Renault's withdrawal, the category continued as the World Series Formula V8 3.5 in 2016 and 2017 before its discontinuation, having produced numerous talents who progressed to higher series.[3][17][18] The inaugural Formula Renault 3.5 season in 2005 merged elements from prior Renault V6 and Nissan programs, launching at Zolder with 14 rounds and establishing the series as a direct feeder to GP2 and Formula 1, where early champion Robert Kubica quickly advanced. Performance peaked in 2015 with an expanded calendar of 17 races over nine events, including high-stakes battles at venues like Monaco and Aragon, where Oliver Rowland clinched the title amid fierce rivalry with drivers like Carlos Sainz Jr. The 2017 season, the final under the V8 3.5 banner, featured seven rounds and culminated in Pietro Fittipaldi's championship win at Bahrain, marking the end of two decades of operation amid declining grid sizes and sponsorship challenges. Between 2005 and 2015 alone, the series delivered 187 races, underscoring its endurance as a competitive proving ground.[19][20][21] Race weekends followed a consistent dual-race format, typically with 14 to 17 rounds per season held as support events to larger Renault series, featuring a longer feature race on Sunday—often requiring a mid-race tire change—and a shorter sprint race the following day, with the sprint grid set by reversing the feature race's top-10 finishers while the rest used qualifying order. Points were distributed to the top 10 classified finishers in each race via the FIA-standard system: 25 for first, 18 for second, 15 for third, and diminishing to 1 for tenth, contributing to both driver and teams' standings. Notable developments included Tech 1 Racing's team dominance, securing four titles between 2008 and 2013 through consistent podium sweeps and strategic prowess. Circuit rotations evolved over time, such as replacing Magny-Cours as a regular host with Paul Ricard for key 2017 events, adapting to venue availability and cost efficiencies while maintaining a focus on technical European tracks.[22][23][24]Formula Renault 2.0
Technical Specifications and Evolutions
The Formula Renault 2.0 series features a standardized single-seater design emphasizing accessibility and driver development, with core components including a Tatuus-manufactured carbon-fiber monocoque chassis introduced in the FR2000 model from 2000 onward, providing structural integrity and lightweight construction.[25] The powerplant is a Renault F4R inline-4 engine displacing 2,000 cc, naturally aspirated with 16 valves, delivering between 185 and 210 horsepower at 5,500 to 7,500 rpm depending on the evolution stage.[26] Transmission is handled by a Sadev sequential gearbox, initially 6-speed from 2000 and upgraded to 7-speed in later models, contributing to the car's minimum weight range of 490 to 565 kg including driver.[27] Early iterations from 1995 to 1999 utilized aluminum or steel tubular chassis from various manufacturers, paired with a production-derived 2.0-liter 8-valve Renault engine producing approximately 160-165 horsepower, and a 5-speed Hewland manual gearbox, prioritizing cost control over advanced materials.[28] The shift in 2000 to 2009 marked a significant evolution with the adoption of the Tatuus FR2000 carbon-fiber chassis for enhanced safety and performance, alongside the 16-valve F4R engine boosted to around 200 horsepower, enabling better acceleration and handling in mid-level single-seater racing.[25] From 2010 to the present, the FR2.0-13 chassis refinement by Tatuus incorporated updated aerodynamics for a top speed of 270 km/h, while the F4R 832 engine variant reached 210 horsepower, reflecting ongoing optimizations for efficiency and competitiveness.[9][29] Tire options include Michelin or Hankook slick compounds for dry conditions and wet-weather alternatives, mounted on 13-inch wheels to balance grip and durability across circuits.[9] Braking systems consist of ventilated disc brakes with ABS-free operation, ensuring responsive stopping power suited to the category's sprint formats, while the 2010 update introduced sequential paddle shifters for quicker gear changes without a clutch pedal.[27][29] Performance benchmarks highlight the car's role as a stepping stone to higher categories like Formula Renault 3.5, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 3.5 seconds and fuel efficiency tuned for 30-minute race stints using a 50-liter tank.[9]Major Championships
The Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0, established in 1991, served as the flagship international championship for the category until its conclusion in 2020, attracting top young talents from across Europe and beyond. The series typically comprised 8 to 10 rounds per season, held at iconic European venues such as Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, Monza in Italy, and the Red Bull Ring in Austria, emphasizing close racing on diverse track layouts. Following the end of the World Series by Renault in 2015, the Eurocup operated independently but integrated as a support event to the European Le Mans Series at circuits like Paul Ricard and Spa-Francorchamps, enhancing visibility for emerging drivers. The final 2020 season, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and condensed to seven events with 14 races total, was dominated by Victor Martins of ART Grand Prix, who claimed seven wins to secure the title.[30][31] National and regional championships formed the backbone of the Formula Renault 2.0 ecosystem, fostering grassroots development in key markets. The British Formula Renault 2.0, launched in 1989 and concluding in 2011, featured up to 10 double-header weekends across UK circuits including Silverstone, Brands Hatch, and Donington Park, producing notable alumni like Kimi Räikkönen. In Italy, the Formula Renault series originated in the 1970s with smaller engines before adopting the 2.0-liter specification in the early 2000s, running through the 2010s with rounds at high-speed tracks like Monza and Mugello, emphasizing technical precision on varied layouts. The Swedish Formula Renault 2.0, active from 2009 to 2010, operated primarily in Scandinavia with events at Mantorp Park and Anderstorp, providing accessible entry for Nordic racers.[32][33] The Northern European Cup (NEC), formed in 2006 by merging the German and Dutch national series, endured until 2020, hosting 7 to 9 rounds annually at circuits such as Zandvoort in the Netherlands, Assen, and Hockenheim in Germany, known for its competitive fields and wet-weather challenges. International growth extended the Formula Renault 2.0 footprint beyond Europe, with expansions targeting emerging markets. The Americas series, active from 2002 to 2006 in Latin America and extending to North American events through 2011, included rounds at prominent venues like Interlagos in Brazil and Laguna Seca in the United States, blending local talent with international visitors to promote the formula in the Western Hemisphere. Similarly, the Asia-Pacific championship operated from 2002 to 2012, featuring events at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, alongside stops in China and Japan, to capitalize on the region's growing motorsport infrastructure and attract drivers from Asia. These series highlighted the category's global appeal while maintaining standardized technical regulations for equitable competition.[1] Across major Formula Renault 2.0 championships, the race format emphasized sprint-style action, with two races per weekend typically lasting 25 minutes plus one additional lap to determine finishing order. Qualifying sessions set the grids independently for each race, often with a reverse-grid element for the second event in some national series to promote overtaking. Championship points were awarded to the top ten finishers, commonly on a 25-18-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 scale in the Eurocup and NEC, while select national events used a more condensed 20-15-12-10-8 system for the top five to streamline scoring in shorter fields. This structure rewarded consistency and aggressive driving, with additional points for pole position and fastest lap in many iterations, underscoring the series' role as a proving ground for future stars.[34][35]List of Champions
The Formula Renault 2.0 series, highlighted by its flagship Eurocup launched in 1991, produced approximately 30 seasons of international competition through 2020, crowning numerous champions who advanced to Formula 3, Formula 2, and Formula 1. These series served as a vital mid-level step for drivers transitioning from entry-level formulas, with many graduates joining the Renault Sport Academy and achieving success in higher categories. The high graduation rate is evident in alumni like Lando Norris, who won the 2016 Eurocup and progressed to Formula 1 with McLaren in 2019.[36] Across all Formula Renault 2.0 iterations, including national and regional championships in Europe, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific, over 200 drivers claimed titles from the 1990s to 2020, fostering a global talent pool that emphasized performance and development. Notable multi-series winners include drivers who dominated regional events before international breakthroughs, underscoring the formula's reach in junior racing.[1]Selected Champions in Key Formula Renault 2.0 Series
| Year | Series | Champion | Notable Progression |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 | Kamui Kobayashi (Japan) | Advanced to Formula 1 with Toyota (2009) and Sauber (2010–2012).[36] |
| 2012 | Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 | Stoffel Vandoorne (Belgium) | GP2 champion (2015); Formula 1 with McLaren (2016–2018).[36] |
| 2014 | Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 | Nyck de Vries (Netherlands) | Formula E champion (2023); debuted in Formula 1 with AlphaTauri (2023).[36] |
| 2016 | Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 | Lando Norris (United Kingdom) | Formula 1 driver with McLaren (2019–present).[36] |
| 2019 | Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 | Oscar Piastri (Australia) | Formula 2 champion (2021); Formula 1 with McLaren (2023–present).[36] |
| 2020 | Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 | Victor Martins (France) | Progressed to FIA Formula 3 (2022) and Formula E with Renault (2024).[36] |
Series Timeline
The Formula Renault 2.0 series originated in 1995 as a mid-level open-wheel category to bridge entry-level formulas and higher series like Formula Renault 3.5, adopting the 2.0-liter Renault engine for standardized performance and cost control. The inaugural specification emphasized naturally aspirated power from production-derived units, quickly establishing national championships in Europe, such as the British and Italian series in the late 1990s.[1] During the 2000s, the series experienced rapid growth with the introduction of the Tatuus FR2000 chassis in 2000, enhancing safety and aerodynamics, alongside the Eurocup's expansion to include more international rounds. This period saw global outreach, including the launch of the Americas series in 2002 and Asia-Pacific championship in 2007, targeting emerging markets with events in Brazil, the US, Malaysia, and China. Technical updates, such as the 16-valve F4R engine in 2001 boosting output to 200 horsepower, unified specifications across continents. The series integrated into the World Series by Renault from 2005, increasing visibility through shared weekends with top categories.[25] From 2010 to 2020, Formula Renault 2.0 underwent refinements like the FR2.0-13 chassis and paddle shifters, while facing contraction in some regions amid rising costs and FIA Formula 3/4 emergence. The NEC merged regional efforts until its 2020 end, and the Eurocup concluded that year, transitioning engines and branding to the FIA Formula Regional European Championship. Post-2020, legacy 2.0 cars persist in regional historic and club events, such as Austria's Drexler Formula Light Cup as of 2024, sustaining grassroots access.[29][39] This evolution highlights the series' role in driver development despite integration into modern FIA frameworks.[1]Formula Renault 1.6
Technical Specifications
The Formula Renault 1.6 cars feature a lightweight carbon fiber monocoque chassis designed for enhanced safety and performance, with manufacturers including Tatuus, Mygale, and Signatech producing models optimized for drivers aged 14 to 21 through adjustable suspension and ergonomics that promote skill development.[6][40] The minimum dry weight, excluding driver and fuel, is typically 483-485 kg, allowing for agile handling suited to junior racing circuits.[40][6] At the heart of the car is the naturally aspirated Renault K4M 1.6-liter inline-four engine, producing 140 horsepower at 6750-6800 rpm and 157-160 Nm of torque at 4500 rpm, derived from the road-going Twingo Renaultsport for reliability and cost-effectiveness in entry-level competition.[41][6][40] This powertrain emphasizes balanced delivery over raw output, with a redline at 7200 rpm, supporting the series' focus on driver technique rather than overwhelming speed.[40] The drivetrain consists of a rear-wheel-drive layout paired with a five-speed sequential gearbox from Sadev (model SL66) or Hewland, featuring a limited-slip differential for precise control during cornering.[40][6] Tires are slick compounds from Kumho or Michelin, sized 180/53-13 front and 220/54-13 rear, providing consistent grip on dry tracks to aid young racers in learning tire management.[40] Performance metrics highlight the car's role as an accessible stepping stone, achieving a top speed of around 220 km/h and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds, with design priorities placed on sharp handling and predictable responses over outright power.[42] This configuration serves as a precursor to more powerful 2.0-liter series, building foundational skills for aspiring professionals.[6] Safety standards align with FIA regulations, incorporating an approved roll cage—updated with a higher front hoop since 2015—and impact-absorbing monocoque structures that deform controllably in crashes to protect the driver.[40] Additional features include an integrated fire extinguisher system and reinforced survival cell components, ensuring compliance for junior categories.[40]Championship Seasons
The European F4 Eurocup 1.6, launched in 1993 and integrated into the World Series by Renault in 2010, represented the flagship international competition for Formula Renault 1.6, running annually until 2017 with 7-10 rounds across prominent European venues including Hockenheim, Brands Hatch, Barcelona, Spa-Francorchamps, Paul Ricard, and the Nürburgring.[1][43] Seasons typically featured 8-12 races, structured as short 20- to 30-minute heats to emphasize driver skill and close racing, often incorporating guest entries from emerging F4 categories for added competitiveness.[1] The format fostered intense battles, with two races per round becoming standard from 1994 onward, allowing young talents aged 14-21 to gain experience on diverse circuits while adhering to one-make specifications using Tatuus or Mygale chassis powered by Renault 1.6-liter engines.[1][43] National series complemented the European calendar, providing localized progression paths. The Italian Formula Renault 1.6, active through the 2000s until merging into the Formula Renault 2.0 Alps in 2011, hosted races at circuits like Monza and Imola, focusing on domestic development with similar short-heat formats.[1] In Sweden, the Formula Renault 1.6 series operated from the 1990s into the 2010s, evolving into the Formula Renault 1.6 Nordic by 2013, which integrated with the STCC touring car events at tracks such as Anderstorp and Karlskoga, emphasizing Nordic regional talent nurturing through 8-10 race weekends.[44] The French junior series, rebranded under Alpine sponsorship from 2010 to 2017 as part of the F4 Eurocup 1.6, ran alongside the European events at venues like Le Mans and Magny-Cours, prioritizing accessibility for beginners with subsidized entries and 18-race seasons by the mid-2010s.[43][1] Standout seasons highlighted the series' growth and talent pipeline. The 2007 campaign peaked in popularity with around 30 entrants across rounds, driven by high-profile support from Renault, culminating in Jean-Éric Vergne's championship win in the French Formula Renault Campus amid fierce competition.[43] By 2017, the final year before the shift to FIA-sanctioned Formula 4 regulations, Arthur Rougier secured the title in a dramatic finale at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, edging out Victor Martins with consistent podiums despite collisions and intense pressure, marking the end of an era that had launched drivers like Stoffel Vandoorne and Pierre Gasly toward higher formulas.[45][43] This transition in 2018 integrated global F4 standards, leaving a legacy of accessible, high-volume racing that prioritized skill over cost.[43]List of Champions
The Formula Renault 1.6 series, encompassing the flagship French championship (initially known as Formula Renault Campus France and later rebranded as F4 Eurocup 1.6) and various national variants, produced 25 seasons of competition from 1993 to 2017, crowning a total of 25 Eurocup/French champions during that period. These series served as an essential entry point for young drivers transitioning from karting, with many graduates advancing to Formula 3, Formula 2, and even Formula 1. The high graduation rate is evident in the careers of standout alumni, such as Stoffel Vandoorne, who won the 2010 F4 Eurocup 1.6 and progressed to win the 2012 Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup before securing titles in GP2 Series (2015) and debuting in Formula 1 with McLaren in 2016.[46] Across all Formula Renault 1.6 iterations, including national championships in countries like France, Italy, Belgium, and others, more than 100 drivers claimed titles over the decades, fostering a diverse talent pool that emphasized affordability and technical development. Notable multi-series winners include drivers who dominated regional events before international success, highlighting the formula's global reach in junior racing.Selected Champions in Key Formula Renault 1.6 Series
| Year | Series | Champion | Notable Progression |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | French Formula Renault Campus | Sébastien Philippe | Advanced to higher French single-seater categories.[47] |
| 2005 | French Formula Renault Campus | Jean-Karl Vernay | Won 2008 Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup; competed in DTM and FIA GT Series.[48] |
| 2010 | F4 Eurocup 1.6 | Stoffel Vandoorne (Belgium) | GP2 champion (2015); Formula 1 driver (2016–2018).[49] |
| 2015 | French F4 Championship | Valentin Moineault | Progressed to Formula Renault 2.0 and European Formula 3.[50] |
| 2017 | French F4 Championship | Arthur Rougier | Joined Renault Sport Academy; raced in Formula Renault Eurocup. |