Renault to boost F1 resources after Formula E exit

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Renault has confirmed its exit from Formula E, a move which will allow the manufacturer to devote more resources to its works F1 program.

Renault joined the all-electric championship as a partner of the e.dams team, committing to the series as an official manufacturer in FE's second season in 2015/16.

Nissan announced at the Tokyo Motor Show on Wednesday that it would take over the representation of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance in Formula E from the series' fifth season, in 2018/19.

Jean-Paul Driot and Alain Prost's e.dams team, which holds the FE entry, is expected to operate the Nissan supported entity.

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Renault's withdrawal from FE will free up resources, allowing the manufacturer to focus on meeting its" aggressive goals" in Formula 1.

"We had an incredible championship run during our first three years in Formula E and look forward to a competitive fourth season with the benefit of a very stable environment at Renault e.dams," said Thierry Koskas, Groupe Renault EVP sales & marketing.

"As a pioneer in EV, we have learned a tremendous amount about high-performance electric vehicles and energy management that directly benefits our EV customers.

"After Season four we will focus resources on our aggressive goals for Formula 1 and we look forward to continuing to gain benefits from motorsport racing across the Alliance with Nissan."

In addition to its works efforts, Renault will also supply its power unit to F1 customers Red Bull Racing and McLaren in 2018.

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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.