Megane RS races Jet Pack Man at F1GP

Renault's influence in Formula One racing is undisputed. This season the F1 field is made up of four teams powered by Renault engines including the Red Bull Racing outfit which has a good chance of winning the championship again after a successful 2011 campaign. Aussie Mark Webber drives for the Renault-powered Red Bull Racing team, so it's fitting the French brand has released a special edition Renaultsport Megane 250 'Australian Grand Prix' model in time for the 2012 race. Renault Australia is celebrating the Megane RS 250 AGP Edition's launch with displays at this month's Australian Grand Prix and this week the Renault 'Jet Pack Man' took on the Megane AGP Edition in a 400m sprint. Despite his fantastic flight only taking 23 seconds, he wasn't able to beat the new hot hatch. The Renault Jet Pack man gets his oomph from a combination of hydrogen peroxide and water and travels as fast as 100km/h. He will be at the Albert Park circuit throughout the week and will lead six Renault Mégane RS 250s into formation to start the Red Bull Race Off on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th March. Renault Jet Pack Man, aka Nick Macomber, said: "It was a privilege to race neck-and-neck with the new Renault Mégane R.S. 250 today. If Renault can beat my jetpack they will go fast and beat everybody at the Australian Grand Prix this weekend!" Limited to just 50 examples, the Megane RS 250 AGP Edition is available for order from Renault dealers now, starting from $49,990. The hot hatch is equipped with Renault's powerful turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and smooth-shifting six-speed manual. The engine is rated at 184kW/340Nm, with maximum torque arriving by a low 3000rpm. The Megane RS 250 AGP Edition boasts the same Bridgestone RE050A tyres used by the RS Trophy model which currently holds the record for fastest lap set by a front-wheel drive car at the famous Nurburgring circuit. The AGP Edition comes standard with 19-inch 'Steev' alloy wheels and high-end braking system from Brembo. The hot Megane is made distinct from the rest of the range by its gloss black exterior and race-inspired interior with Recaro front seats. Standard-fit equipment includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth, front and rear parking assistance, bi-xenon directional headlights and fixed glass roof. Renault's range is well-equipped in the safety stakes and the Megane RS 250 AGP Edition carries the same package, with six-airbags, anti-lock braking system incorporating electronic brakeforce distribution and electronic stability program. Suiting the AGP Edition's sporty role, the ESP can be turned off. Justin Hocevar, Managing Director of Renault Australia, said: "We are so excited to bring Renault Jet Pack Man to Melbourne as part of the Australian Grand Prix celebrations. He is a wonderful spectacle and I have no doubt will be a very popular attraction over the weekend. "Despite a close race, it was great to see the Megane RS 250 come out on top." Visit motoring.com.au again for our upcoming review of the Renault RS Megane 250 and our coverage of this year's Australian Grand Prix.