Having tested the 2017 Renault in the simulator, Jolyon Palmer says next year's car "looks awesome" and will be more challenging to drive.
2017 sees the introduction of new aerodynamic regulations as well as wider tyres in an attempt to lower lap times by up to five seconds. Having been confirmed as staying at Renault next season last week, Palmer has viewed the car in development and driven it in the simulator, with the Briton impressed by what he has seen.
"I’ve seen the wind tunnel model and it looks awesome!" Palmer said of the 2017 car. "It’s going to be a great looking car. I’ve driven it on the sim and it’s quick. Of course, the new rules are the same for everyone, and we won’t know how we stack-up against our rivals until we hit the track in Barcelona, but the speeds are higher, the car is more challenging to drive and I think it’s going to be a great spectacle when we race next year."
And Palmer says he is motivated to continue his own progress in preparation for 2017, feeling he has improved as his rookie season has gone on.
"It’s a nice feeling as I have my 2017 drive all sorted especially as I’m continuing with Renault Sport Formula One Team. I have every incentive to bow out this year with a good result, then work hard over the winter and come back next year stronger than ever.
"I’m really very happy to be continuing with the team, especially as it will be for my third season working with Enstone. I’ve learnt a lot this year and I think the second half of this year has been pretty strong. I enjoying working with everyone in the team and I know we’re going places in the future."
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