F1 technology makes way into Renault Korea lineup

Renault Korea's SM6 TCe 300 Inspire sedan is on display. Courtesy of Renault Korea

Renault Korea Motors has enhanced its vehicle lineup by aplying F1 engine technologies to its SM6 TCe 300 Inspire 01 sedan.

Featuring Renault’s V4 1.8-liter inline turbo engine, the mid-sized sedan delivers a maximum 223 horsepower with a torque value of 30.6 kg.m.

“The reason behind its exceptionally punchy output reflects Renault’s F1 engine technology applied to the model,” a Renault Korea official said.

The French carmaker has participated in international racing competitions for open-wheel single-seater formula racing machines as both team owner and engine manufacturer since 1977.

The SM6 TCe 300 Inspire comes with the Renault signature twin-scroll turbo engine. The engine’s turbo chargers split the exhaust portion of the turbocharger into two channels, separating the incoming exhaust pulses. Under the setup, the vehicle exhaust can power a turbine regardless of its engine rotation speed.

The SM6 TCe 300 Inspire sedan delivers a maximum torque between 2,000 and 4,800 rpm, an ideal setup for a daily driver. It reaches its maximum output at 5,600 rpm.

“The V4 1.8-liter inline engine is produced only in Renault’s Busan plant,” the official said. “It is one of the carmaker group’s lowest defect rate plants across the globe.”

Renault’s F1 hybrid system is also applied to its mass-produced models.

The XM3 E-Tech small-sized SUV features a 1.6-liter engine with two high-voltage electric motors, an identical setup to F1 racing machines. The SUV uses the two electric motors to maximize energy efficiency. The two motors deliver a maximum of 69 horsepower.

Changes in F1 regulations saw the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engines change to 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid power units in 2014. It is believed to be part of F1 teams’ efforts to maintain a link to road car applications as the market is more concerned with emissions and pollution.