Renault’s new F1 car passes FIA crash tests

Renault is the latest Formula 1 team to announce that it has passed the FIA's mandatory crash tests, clearing the renewed works outfit to take part in the upcoming pre-season test sessions in Barcelona.

After a spell as an engine supplier, Renault opted to buy back Lotus, the team it previously owned from 2002-2010, and return to Formula 1 as a full-time factory entry from 2016.

Renault is currently gearing up for a February press conference, in which a "new team name, full management structure, team partners and other details" are set to be communicated.

Another step forward was revealed on Wednesday when, still tweeting under its former Lotus guise, the squad confirmed that it had homologated its new chassis, which has not been named.

Jolyon Palmer and Pastor Maldonado signed contracts with the Enstone-based operation before Renault's takeover, though their race seats were later assured by a brand spokesman.

Political change in Venezuela and the low price of oil have raised questions over PDVSA-backed Maldonado's place, however, with Kevin Magnussen seen as a potential replacement.

Haas, new to the Formula 1 grid for the 2016 season, and Manor, which has undergone a rebranding, are the other teams to have confirmed the completion of the FIA's tests.