ERS issues solved at Renault - Abiteboul

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Renault Sport F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul says the Energy Recovery System issues which affected its power unit have now been solved.

All Renault teams were confronted with a chronic ERS weakness during pre-season testing, although the manufacturer was aware at the outset of a problem which was magnified during testing, according to engine boss Remi Taffin.

The problem has since been addressed, alleviating the worries of both the works team and its customers, Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso.

"We have addressed the ERS issue which caused us reliability concerns and do not expect to see a repeat of it in Australia," said Abiteboul.

"There is a balance between pushing the envelope of performance and maintaining the requisite reliability and the trick is to stretch the margins without overstepping them.

"We know we have a strong base with the R.S.17 which puts us in good stead for the relentless development race we expect to see. We are confident in the abilities of the team to improve and develop the car over the year."

Hulkenberg: All pumped up and ready to play!

The Frenchman is expecting Renault to fight for points on a regular basis this season, steeping up its performance from last year.

"Our own target for Albert Park is the same target we will have for every race this year: points," he commented.

"We want to score points throughout the year so when the final tally comes we have finished fifth in the Constructors' Championship.

"It will be a long battle, but we know what we need to do."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.