With launching and testing of the new 2009 cars rapidly approaching, Renault have revealed that their new R29 has failed the mandatory crash test, with Autosport suggesting that severe damage was done to the chassis while the nose and side impact tests failed.

However they have urged their fans not to worry as they have now rectified the problem and things will proceed as originally scheduled.

"We have identified the problem and solved it," a spokeswoman told Reuters. "We will be able to run the car as planned in Portugal."

Prior to beginning their first test of the year in Portugal next week, the French based squad will officially unveil their new car to the public.