Renault launches R24
Today, Renault launched its new R24 in Sicily, which was actually most interesting for the new livery, since the car already ran during testing a week ago. The car looks new from top to end, and includes apparent aerodynamical enhancements and the new 72° V10.
Technical director Bob Bell, a doctor in Aeronautical Engineering, explains more closely where the R24 is innovative, and what the main qualities are.
"The R24 was completed on time, on the day we had planned. Already, that is a performance that does credit to everybody who worked on this project. From the outside, the car can be distinguished by a taller engine cover, and the rear wing, which is limited to two upper elements in order to meet the 2004 regulations. In theory, this configuration brings with it a loss of aerodynamic efficiency close to 6%.
"However, hard work in the windtunnel has allowed us to overcome this deficit: the R24 already has more downforce than the R23B. Of course, the mechanical package includes the new 72° V10 engine. This architecture did not give us any particular problems. One must conceive of an F1 car as a whole, and what is lost in one area can be gained back elsewhere.
"Thus, the centre of gravity may be slightly higher than in 2003 but this difference is less than 10mm. The engine/chassis integration is extremely good. Thanks to optimized communications between Enstone and Viry-Châtillon, the overall package is very compact. This characteristic has allowed us to sculpt the bodywork exactly as we wanted to: the new ‘v’ angle permitted much narrower, tighter sidepods at the rear.
"In terms of stiffness, we have made a step forward of approximately 10%, which is a real achievement with the new engine architecture. The R24 is also lighter than its predecessor. The suspension employs some new materials, but has retained roughly the same geometry as last season. The fuel tank is smaller than in 2003, and the wheelbase has been modified.
"Finally, the R24 has a 100% titanium 6-speed gearbox, as opposed to a hybrid titaniumcarbon construction previously. This change came about to meet our stiffness and weight targets."
