Lotus Renault debuts livery for 2011

Lotus Renault GP unveiled its livery for F1 2011 yesterday at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham.

Vitaly Petrov and F1 legend Jean Alesi were on hand to take the covers off and to debut the car in its 'JPS' black and gold colour scheme - although it actually bore little difference to the image released in December following the announcement Group Lotus had entered into a 'strategic alliance' with the Renault F1 team.

"I didn't know much about F1 and Lotus when I was young," Petrov said at the unveiling. "But when I came to Europe I felt a sense of the Lotus history and this left a big impression on me.

"Being part of this squad makes me very happy and also proud. My ambitions for 2011 are clear: I will do my best and fight for poles and podium finishes."

Eric Boullier, team principal at Lotus Renault GP added: "Our line up with Lotus gives us a sense of stability [for the future]. This commitment is a great achievement for us and through this we have a long-term vision.

"This is obviously very exciting for us and we are all thrilled at the opportunities ahead. I strongly believe that with Vitaly and Robert [Kubica] we have the best drivers for our F1 team."

Lotus Renault GP now plans to officially launch its new car later this month, with the presentation taking place at Valencia on January 31, just prior to the first test of the year at Spanish track.