RENAULT head into tomorrow’s German Grand Prix at Hockenheim with high hopes following the introduction of several updates to their car.

The Enstone-based team are fourth in the Formula 1 constructors’ championship after a productive first half of the season.

But they know improvements are needed to stay clear of the chasing pack, led by Banbury’s Haas.

Carlos Sainz is relishing the prospect of new elements being introduced to his car in Germany, where teammate Nico Hulkenberg will race in front of his home fans.

He said: “I’m happy to be back racing in Germany.

“I’m especially looking forward to it as we have a few updates there – including a new front wing – to help us get back on the pace we showed at the beginning of the year.”

Haas are 19 points behind Renault and Romain Grosjean is confident of overtaking them in the second half of the season.

He said: “We can do even better. We can still improve.

“We will work even harder to make sure we don’t have any more issues.

“I think we can aim for fourth.”

Grove-based Williams bid to end a six-race run without scoring a point.

And Sergey Sirotkin is also hoping a front wing will help to deliver a morale-boosting result.

He said: “It will be exciting to see what our recent upgrades can bring us before the summer break.

“It will be an important weekend for the team and I am looking forward to it.”