Double-points finish well within Renault's reach - Abiteboul

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Renault heads to Hungary with a positive outlook generated by its recent step up in performance, but team boss Cyril Abiteboul now wants a double-points finish before the summer break sets in.

Nico Hulkenberg achieved a points-scoring sixth-place finish at Silvesrtone last weekend thanks partly to an aero upgrade which included a new floor on Renault's RS17.

An uptick in speed and performance has been established, and with Jolyon Palmer's car also fitted with the latest updates, the French outfit's drivers will both be aiming for points at the twisty Hungaroring.

Hulkenberg hails 'step forward' by Renault heading to Hungary

"We have shown at Silverstone that we are continuing to improve," Abiteboul explained in the team's Hungary preview.

"Chassis developments, in particular the new floor, proved to be positive exemplified from Nico’s eight points and both cars showing strong qualifying pace.

"It’s critical to back up this improvement with both cars finishing in the top ten in Hungary – we want to finish the first half of the season on a positive note.

"To achieve this, we need to put behind our reliability problems. We know our situation and the areas which require more attention.

Abiteboul is sticking by Renault's end-of-season target as it continues to build on its long-term F1 ambitions.

"Our targets remain unchanged; we want to be sixth by the end of play on 30^th July and fifth by the end of the season," he adds.

"A double-points finish is well within our reach."

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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.