Renault will introduce a new qualifying power mode across all its three Formula 1 teams at the Austrian Grand Prix. Cyril Abiteboul confirms that the so-called party mode will be available to the works team, Red Bull and McLaren. The mode was tested but not actually used in France last weekend.
“There are a number of differences. It’s due to the fact that there are different types of fuel, Abiteboul said. But we’ve discussed it now. And all cars are getting exactly the same treatment, as we’ve always done. It’s great news that we are capable of introducing a new qualifying mode, which is making an impact for the first time.
We tested it on track, we didn’t run it, but we had to test it on track, just to make sure of driveability. It’s part of the validation programme. Now that it’s validated it’s going to be available for all three teams.
We needed a bit more time, due to the fact that we had to homologate it on one fuel and then the other fuel,” he revealed referring to the fact that Red Bull uses a different fuel to both Renault and McLaren, a move which the French manufacturer claims has compromised the effectiveness of the units in the Red Bulls,
“But it’s going to be available for the first time on all three cars in qualifying, on both types of fuel”, Cyril continued.
Asked specifically about Red Bull, he said: “We love them. We want them to do extremely well. And we think they have a chance to be world champions this year, and this is really bringing something nice and extra. Between ‘spec B’ and ‘spec C’ will also be a big improvement.”
