Autoblog

Click on the image above to view the new R28 in our high-resolution gallery

Renault F1 fell off their form last year. After winning two back-to-back world titles, they finished third in the constructors' championship, behind erstwhile perennial mid-fielder BMW Sauber – and that was after McLaren was disqualified. Now they've got their golden boy Fernando Alonso back, joined by Nelson Piquet Jr., the heir and namesake of the 80's-era three-time world champion. This is the year in which Renault hopes to return to the top step of the podium (or to the podium altogether – they only got there once last season). And this is the car in which they hope to pull it off.

The new R28 was unveiled in Paris today (together with the new Twingo Renaultsport) after four days and 1500km of testing in Valencia, Spain. Like all of its competitors, Renault's engineers had to incorporate the latest technical regulations that mandate a standardized engine control unit, without traction control, and a transmission that now has to last several races, while engine development remains frozen. So the bulk of the development rests on aerodynamics and suspension. Renault says the new R28 was a more complete redesign from last year's model, which evolved from the one before that. They've incorporated a zero-keel suspension mounting, and a set-up designed to take better advantage of the standardized Bridgestone tires introduced last year.

Citing improved sales figures for their road cars in Western Europe, Renault reiterated the value which it feels the enormous investment of operating a competitive Formula One team presents to its marketing efforts. You can read more in the full press release after the jump, and check out the pretty pictures of the new R28 in the gallery below.

[Source: Renault]

Gallery: 2008 Renault R28