Renault looks set to debut its new upgraded power unit at the Monaco Grand Prix next weekend as it looks to move up the pecking order, as well as deliver customer team Red Bull a step forward to help it challenge Mercedes more regularly.
The manufacturer had originally scheduled a Canada debut for the B-spec unit, but following a successful test this week which proved the engine was delivering what they believed it would – around half a second per lap at some circuits – that schedule has been brought forward.
"The current power unit used since Australia has had several smaller upgrades and all the drivers were very happy with the standard in Spain," said Renault's Remi Taffin. "In parallel, we’ve been working on the new spec since the start of the season but needed to sign off all the parts for reliability and mileage before using on track.
"The tests were very positive and showed it to be more powerful and driveable. We had originally planned to use the new version in Canada when the current units are scheduled to be removed from the cycle, but if we can get the units together and completely validated by Monaco we will use the ones available at this race," he added.
It's believed Renault have two units prepared for the race, one which will be supplied to Red Bull and one to Renault. It's likely the driver ahead in thw standings will get priority, meaning Daniel Ricciardo and Kevin Magnussen will run the upgrade in Monaco, whilst Max Verstappen and Jolyon Palmer will have to wait until Canada.
