Renault

Though the 2010 Formula 1 season ended not that long ago, it's already ancient history. That means it's time for us to start making predictions for the 2011 season. Too early? Never... The first big thing for 2011 is a race calendar that includes a record 20 races. This schedule includes a race at a new facility in India, which Formula 1 says is contingent upon the track meeting their homologation requirements. Still, a 20-race schedule will make things that much more brutal on teams, drivers and their machines.

Formula 1 will switch to Pirelli as the series' tire supplier for 2011. Pirelli have been doing marathon testing since August, in between selecting models for their latest calendar, of course. The final tests were run in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday at the Yas Marina circuit. During testing, Pirelli ran the first-ever tire trial at night in the wet. The tires were tested by Pedro DeLaRosa, who, naturally, declared them ready for F1 after Tuesday's session.

It's hot, it's French, and yes, it's the 2009 Renault Megane Trophy. First shown at the 2008 Paris Auto Show, the newly revised auto features a V6 3.5-liter powerplant that has been bumped up to 360 bhp. Renault claims that with the new aerodynamics and tweaked engine,  their Megane Trophy can keep up with a Porsche GT3. 

Renault Sport incorporates the same mechanicals from the current car which features a FIA-homologated sports-prototype tubular chassis, a semi-automatic gearbox with paddle shifters, an adjustable double wishbone suspension along with 18-inch wheels and Michelin tires.

One bummer, the Renault Megane Trophy is only available as an upgrade kit for existing cars and modification must take place at the factory in Alpine factory in Dieppe. And as a single-seater, no hot French girl will be able to ride along with you...