R.S. 01 (France, 2014)

The Renault RS 01 is a racing car with a design deeply inspired in prototypes and it features a radical image and a high performance signature from Renault Sport.

Design

The shapes of the RS 01, including the smallest details were designed to meet two goals: to make a 01 RS Renault Sport Renault brand icon and get the best performance on the track, through the search for greater aerodynamic efficiency.

Like all Renault models designed under the direction of Laurens van den Acker, Renault Sport RS 01 has a prominent diamond that dominates the front of the vehicle. With a width of 2000 mm, 1116 mm tall, the fascia is enhanced by the daytime running lights LED, which extend along the brake cooling air inlets.
 
The front grille transports air through the chassis to the two radiators and water, ending up being expelled by the two extractors placed on the bonnet. This allows airflow to increase support of the car up front. The blade of the lower splitter and the flat bottom complete the aerodynamic structure on the front. The two flaps situated on either side of the bumper generate vortices that limit turbulence generated by the rotation of the wheels.
   
The air channeled by the lower splitter goes through the extractor through positioned behind the front wheels and follows along the door, feeding the temperature heat exchangers and allowing the cooling of the turbocharger.

Besides the adjustable spoiler, the rear diffuser helps to increase grip of the Renault Sport RS 01 on track. This device has the great advantage of not causing drag and, therefore, doesn't penalize the maximum speed. The rear of the Renault Sport RS 01 is also marked by the dual exhaust and the LED lights which extend across the width of the vehicle.

Performance

The RS 01 is equipped with a 3.8L V6 biturbo engine developed by Nismo, originated in the Nissan GT-R. The turbo pressure has been adapted for an output higher than 500hp and a maximum torque of 600Nm. With these performances the Renault Sport RS 01 is positioned between the GT3 and the DTM models. The engine was combined with a 7-speed gearbox provided by Sadev. Sequential commands are activated by paddles on the steering wheel and managed by an electromagnetic activator XAP.

Chassis

Just like Formula Renault 3.5, Dallara was in charge of the study and manufacture of the chassis. The structure that includes the reservoir 150 liter fuel receives a steel roll-bar. At the front, the deformable structure absorbs energy in the event of impact, while its design makes more effective the aerodynamics of the vehicle. The entire assembly is designed to provide a high level of security and complies to FIA LMP1 standards in 2014.