The season started with very good results for Renault (podium in both first Grand Prix) but it ended badly with the team trying hard to get some points.

Many pointed out that the peculiar exhaust system chosen by the team had ultimately created problems for the car.

The R31's exhaust tips instead of being at the rear of the car were at the front under the side vents. According to Boullier, however, this risk could be overcome.

What was not overcome was the absence of Kubica due to his serious injury. Asked by Autosport magazine about the key factor affecting the team's performance, Boullier responded: “Robert, certainly".

Robert's absence cost him very directly in terms of speed and because it was also a blow to the morale of the team and everyone. But we also had indirect losses, and this shows the value of Robert. It was the faith we lost and the commitment that we can do better. And of course, we don't know how much the front exhausts cost us as things might have been different if we had had Robert's opinion".

Robert Kubica will now definitely miss the start of his championship 2012 and it looks hard to compete in Renault colours, which was named Lotus Renault, since the team has already announced Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean.

Despite his poor season 2011 Boullier believes this experience will make the team stronger in the future.

He stated himself: "This year has been very difficult for our people, for me and for everyone in the company because it contained many special and stressful situations, however, through this we may become aware of the way in which we can become better".