Following the ING Renault F1 Team’s improving performance in 2008, the new R29 is a development in
design philosophy aimed at extracting maximum performance from the new aero regulations, slick
Bridgestone tyres, and KERS system, whilst further developing the strong features of the R28.
With such radical rules coming into force, particularly with respect to aerodynamics, the team placed
great emphasis on maximising the R29’s time in the wind tunnel, with aero development already
underway by February 2008. CFD has also played a considerable role in the design of the car and has
been particularly valuable in understanding the interaction of the aerodynamic package as a whole.
There has been a concerted effort to save as much weight as possible on the R29 to allow for the
introduction of the KERS system. As a result, the design team has moved towards using alternative
materials and construction methods, such as the carbon-titanium gearbox casing, increased use of
MMC aluminium and magnesium.