Renault's vision of F1 in 2027

Renault Sport has revealed its vision for the future of Formula 1 a decade down the road, which it says aims at "putting the driver at the very heart of racing." Here are some highlights of the #RS2027vision concept car, introduced at the Shanghai Motor Show (scroll down for video):

R.S. 2027 Vision puts the emphasis squarely on the human factor, the entertainment factor. With its 3D-printed transparent cockpit, in tough, lightweight material, R.S. 2027 Vision lets spectators actually get a look at the driver behind the wheel. And with a transparent helmet, the driver loses that faceless appearance: spectators can see their reactions, as with any other athlete.

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The futuristic design includes novel lighting details, with C-shape LED headlamps and illuminated diamond badge on the hood designed to connect brand identity between the racer and Renault's current product range.

Active LED lighting in the wheels, displaying data such as the driver's position in the race and the vehicle's energy situation, to provide the audience with direct information on the race as it is being run.

Safety enhancements include a closed cockpit to protect the driver against the risk of impact from flying debris, while the aerodynamic bubble in ultra-strong impact- and flame-resistant polycarbonate forms a safe survival capsule for the driver, strapped into the seat, in the event of vehicle roll.

With power peaking at 1 megawatt and weight of to 800 kilos (1,764 lbs), R.S. 2027 Vision boasts a power to weight ratio unprecedented in Formula 1. With four-wheel steering, the concept car is more agile and precise, and more maneuverable. Its high-energy-density batteries are coupled through a high-efficiency energy recovery system that stores power for subsequent release, along similar lines to the system on Renault's mainstream electric models like ZOE Z.E. 40.

"One of our aims at Renault Sport Racing is to point the way to the future of Formula 1, helping this discipline pull in audiences in an environment consistent with Groupe Renault objectives," explained Cyril Abiteboul, managing director of Renault Sport Racing. We're very proud of this concept car, which addresses fans, motorsport enthusiasts and the public at large with a tantalizing expression of our ideas and aspirations for the future."

So how does this vision of F1's future match up with yours?