Renault-powered drivers unimpressed with new 'party mode'

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Renault introduced a new qualifying engine mode in Austria last weekend, but those powered by the manufacturer's engine hardly noticed the gains.

Renault's engineers improved the performance of the unit's internal combustion engine for qualifying, while the engine also received a new lighter and more compact MGU-K element.

However, those who expected a bustling daytime 'party' Saturday afternoon around the Red Bull Ring were in for a disappointment.

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"I didn't feel much," admitted Red Bull's Max Verstappen.

"I think there was a small increase in power, but I'm not sure it is fully optimised yet. I think it has improved a little, but it was hard to feel," he added.

According to AS newspaper, team boss Christian Horner agrees: "I think it was more an appetiser than a party."

Even the works Renault drivers were not impressed.

"I think something more important has to happen to make it noticeable," said Nico Hulkenberg.

"I don't know what they've told you about what we have, but I can tell you that it wasn't shocking."

And McLaren's Fernando Alonso said: "We trust that it will do more, but it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the previous map and this one."

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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.