Located in Eure, between Vernon and Rouen, the Aubevoye Technical Center is a secure site where Groupe Renault's new vehicles undergo rigorous endurance, reliability and performance tests. Next to the race tracks, the center boasts more than a thousand engineers and technicians working in state-of-the-art technical facilities.
The Renault Sport Formula One Team driver spent the morning meeting dozens of the center's employees. The schedule? A selfie session, group photos, autograph signings, and several workshop visits. Some employees were even invited to join him for a spectacular on-site test ride in MEGANE R.S. 2018. It was an emotional day for Arnaud Picard, a Prototype Preparation Engineer: “What an unforgettable ride – both safe and thrilling. Amazing!”
#Live | Feeling adventurous? @Carlossainz55, our @RenaultSportF1 driver visits Aubevoye Technical Center! A special day full of surprises ✨ #RSspirit pic.twitter.com/oaqq4Osezz
— Groupe Renault (@Groupe_Renault) 6 novembre 2018
Carlos Sainz then made his way to the Sandouville plant where he was able to learn more about Renault Trafic’s production processes. From stamping to assembly, the driver met employees to discuss their work and assess interest in Formula One in the region. The rewarding visit was rounded off by a dexterity test at the Screwdriving Workshop.
After Aubevoye, @Carlossainz55 went to #Sandouville plant for an unprecedented immersion in the assembly line! An impressive experience according to the talented pilot ?️ #RSspirit #WeAreRenault pic.twitter.com/iPkQa9H0se
— Groupe Renault (@Groupe_Renault) 7 novembre 2018
At the end of his visit, Carlos Sainz was clearly impressed.
“It was a fantastic day. I got to meet some very enthusiastic people and I was able to learn more about different kinds of testing methods. I definitely now have a better understanding of what goes on here at Renault. I’m very pleased with this visit – my first, in fact.” Carlos Sainz
The feeling is certainly mutual for the 600 employees who made the trip and are very proud of Renault's involvement in Formula One.
"The brand is the brand. I’ve been part of Renault since the 1980s, the early days of Alain Prost. We’re proud to see Renault cars built with competitive engines racing on tracks around the world. I can hardly believe it. One day, we’ll be world champions again." Gilles Marga, Trainer in Assembly Dexterity
One lap, one race ? Time for a sensational ride for some of our employees with @Carlossainz55 at the wheel of a #RenaultMEGANERS ? #WeAreRenault #RSspirit pic.twitter.com/iYQw5BlbVu
— Groupe Renault (@Groupe_Renault) 6 novembre 2018
After this event, Carlos Sainz flew to the Interlagos circuit in Brazil, where he competed in the penultimate Grand Prix of the 2018 season.
