GP2 to make Lyon debut

Renault's street demonstration will follow a similar theme to the recent Toyota run through Cologne and London's Regent St parade earlier in the summer, and we give fans a free chance to get close to F1. GP2 series organiser Bruno Michel reckons the opportunity to take the public wraps off the Dallara in Lyon was too good to pass up.

"Our championship will start next year, and we are currently developing a few ideas in order to get the fans closer to the action on the track at all times," said Michel. "In that respect, it was impossible for us to miss the Lyon event.

"We thought it would be a nice occasion to display our car in public for the first time. The show should be unforgettable and we're delighted to be part of it."

Montagny has completed all the testing miles conducted in the three-month development programme for the GP2 chassis, which runs on grooved tyres and is planned to be just six-seconds per lap slower than a 'mid-grid' F1 car of 2004. The car is powered by a 600bhp, Mader-built four-litre V8 which is badged as a Renault. It also features a Mecachrome-built paddle-shift semi-automatic gearbox. The package will have a lifespan of three seasons.

"I'm sure people will be impressed by the noise, the power and the quality of the GP2 car," said Montagny. "I was lucky enough to discover the GP2 car a few weeks ago: now everybody will be able to have a close look at it. Just like me, I know they'll instantly fall in love with it."