Hulkenberg will 'push all the way' for points in China

©WRI2

40

As frustrating as it was for Nico Hulkenberg to finish just outside the points in Melbourne, the German heads to China convinced a spot in the top ten is in the cards.

While it's still early days at Renault, with the team's upgrade cycle set to begin in earnest in Bahrain, Hulkenberg's RS17 provided a glimpse of its pace and potential, both of which have boosted Hulk's frame of mind.

"I’m going to be pushing all the way for points," he said in Renault's China preview.

"Australia was slightly frustrating as we could have done better with the pace we had in the car but traffic was an issue for most of the race. Our tyre strategy didn’t help us either.

"It looks like we’re in the midfield with some of our rivals slightly ahead, but certainly in reach, and Shanghai is a very different track from Albert Park, so let’s see what happens."

Renault to initiate promising update cycle in Bahrain

Hulkenberg has been impressed with the magnitude and scale of Renault's works operation. The German has settled in nicely in an environment in which he hopes to remain for the long term.

"I feel totally at home and I know we can deliver good things together," he added.

"It’s clearly a big operation at the start of a long adventure and it’s great to be part of this. Everyone’s working hard together and I know we can achieve great things in the future."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.