Formula 1: a thirst for performance

Formula 1 is not only an image vector but also a leading-edge laboratory for developing new lubricants. And its roots in ELF’s identity run deep. ELF’s involvement in Formula 1 spanned three main periods. The first, from 1969 to 1973, with the legendary Jackie Stewart, saw EFL win five world titles; three in the drivers competition and two in the manufacturers competition (with Tyrell Ford and later with Matra Ford). The Renault ELF association in F1 dates back to 1977, in and the first prize cam two years later when Jean Pierre Jaboullie won the French Grand Prix in Dijon. But the second period proper (and indeed the golden years) ran from 1992 to 1996. In only five seasons, thanks to the naturally aspirated V10 engine, Renault and ELF won four drivers World championships (Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill) as well as five manufacturers world championships (with the Williams-Renault and Benetton Renault teams)! ELF can add another manufacturer’s title to this impressive list with Benetton-Ford.

The third period began in 2001, when Renault and ELF teamed up again. Reliability and power are the key words in Formula 1. From the world of motor racing to the general public, ELF engineers fine tune their lubricants to ease fiction and enhance engine efficiency, thus cutting fuel consumption. Renault was on the podium with ELF in 2004, and hopes to win the world title in 2005.



Article by: ELF Lub International Magazine N° 12 - Winter 2004/2005