F1: Renault/Ilmor increase F1 partnership

Renault and Ilmor will increase the level of their working relationship from the 2016 Formula 1 season onward. The two companies have worked together this season in a bid to help Renault close the gap to Mercedes and Ferrari but each piece of work has been handled on a one-off basis.

Following the news Renault will make Lotus its works team and continue to supply Red Bull with engines, albeit it branded as TAG Heuer units, it has now emerged Renault will strengthen its ties with Ilmor. It is understood Ilmor will be a contractor to Renault Sport F1, aiding development of the power unit and have a more structured and consistent involvement with the project.

Ilmor, like other contractors AVL, Mecachrome and Magneti Marelli, will work directly for and under Renault.

Back in the early 1990s, Mario Illien played a key role in helping his then-Ilmor company develop the Mercedes engine that went on to achieve title success with McLaren. He then focused on IndyCar and MotoGP as part of special projects work before working as a consultant for Renault this season to help brainstorm improvements.

With regards the Red Bull project, it is understood Renault will supply the team with the same engine as its works outfit.

Originally on Autosport.com