Renault Wins 'Justify Investment'

"It's a real joy. It validates the strategy and investment that we have in this sport," Schweitzer told Reuters while launching local production of the Logan model.

Renault have taken an 11-point lead in the Constructors' Championship this year, scoring 36 points to Toyota's 25 and leaving Ferrari, champions for the last six years, trailing in sixth place with 10.

After Renault's Giancarlo Fisichella won the opening race in Australia, his Spanish teammate Fernando Alonso did the double in Malaysia and Bahrain, a coup for Renault both on the track and in the show room.

"Three first places in a row, in three World Championship races, in three countries of Asia and the Middle East - that means Renault's recognition is growing in all the countries where we want to develop," Schweitzer said.

"Recognition is the condition of success for a make of car. So it's a strategic investment and not just a sporting exploit."

"I don't think you can predict the future in the world of sport. Experience shows that. On the other hand, our challenge for the year was to be considered in the running for the World Championship. Obviously that is something we have accomplished."