Renault surprised its formula one team rivals in Brazil when it stood opposed to moves to slash testing next year.

In China two weeks ago, all ten outfits agreed at a meeting of the FOTA alliance to reduce in-season test mileage from the current 30,000km to 20,000 for 2009.

But according to the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport, Renault's team manager Steve Nielsen was instructed by team boss Flavio Briatore to oppose a further push on Thursday to further limit 2009 testing to 15,000km.

Given the French team's usual stance on cost-cutting, the move ahead of the Brazilian grand prix was initially surprising.

But Auto Motor und Sport contends that Briatore's stance may be political.

Should the teams fail to agree adequate cost cuts, FIA president Max Mosley has vowed to introduce his own draconian measures, such as standard engines.

Mecachrome, with strong links to both Briatore and Renault, would be high on the list of potential suppliers of a standard engine.

Unanimity in FOTA votes, however, is required only for imminent rules changes. A 15,000km testing limit could be introduced for 2010 with just a 70 per cent majority vote.

Source: GMM