Renault reveals Twin'Run concept at Monaco Grand Prix
Renault unveiled its brand new concept entitled Twin'Run at the 71st Monaco Grand Prix last weekend.
The car, which pays homage to the R5 Turbo and Clio V6, celebrated the racing spirit of the French brand as it went on its first laps ever around the legendary urban track.
Renault's chief operating officer Carlos Tavares was behind the wheel of the vehicle, while a Clio V6 driven by Charles Pic and a Maxi 5 Turbo piloted by Jean Ragnotti tailed behind.
The Twin'Run demonstrates Renault's new styling with its diamond-dominated front end and the blue paint of its chassis is a nod to the "Play" petal of the fifth stage of the manufacturer's design strategy. It also features a '5' on the doors, in honour of the R5 Turbo, which was one of the dominant rally cars of the 1980s.
Under the bonnet, there is a V4Y engine from the Renault-Nissan Alliance mounted ahead of the rear axle centreline to deliver 320hp at 6,800rpm, with torque of 380Nm at 4,850rpm. The engine ensures there is linear acceleration and superb tractions on bends and during acceleration.
It also comes with a SADEV six-speed sequential gearbox with limited slip differential to ensure even greater stability.
The bodywork is made from a glass-polyester composite, with a carbon fibre front blade, roof, rear vent and wheel arches to produce wonderful aesthetics and utmost efficiency.
"Twin'Run embodies the mad genius Renault has been known for over the decades, to the delight of motor sports enthusiasts. No one has forgotten the R5 Turbo and the Clio V6. Twin'Run is the true heir of those racing cars that had so much appeal," said Axel Breun, head of concept car design at Renault.
Rally champion Mr Ragnotti was impressed with the car after its first drive, revealing that it is easy to control and has an instant sports car feel with the balance and ride of the R5 Turbo.
"The gearbox is smooth and you've got powerful brakes. Excellent traction with a responsive engine delivering full power at all revs, rounder and with more torque than the R5 Turbo, making it particularly efficient and easy to drive, unlike the R5, which required more technique," he added.
Posted by Louise Clarke