In addition to the efforts being made to reduce carbon emissions in the production car industry, there is also a push to make advancements on the racetrack. Formula 1, for example, has announced its plans to eliminate carbon emissions by 2026 through the use of carbon-neutral synthetic fuels, commonly known as efuels. This move will not only help reduce the environmental impact of the sport but also serve as a catalyst for future sustainable practices.
Another racing event looking to make a significant change is the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The organizing body, the ACO (Automobile Club de l’Ouest), aims to eliminate CO2 emissions by 2026, but it is taking a different approach. Instead of efuels, the ACO is focusing on hydrogen as a potential solution. Teaming up with H24Project, a consortium supported by French fuel giant Total Energies, the ACO has unveiled the MissionH24 concept, a hydrogen-electric sports prototype race car.
What sets a hydrogen-electric vehicle apart from its battery-powered counterparts is its utilization of a hydrogen fuel cell to generate electricity for the electric drive system. The fuel cell combines hydrogen with oxygen from the air, creating electricity through a nearly emission-free process. While this technology is currently being explored for long-haul trucking, the ACO aims to demonstrate its viability in the racing world.
The MissionH24 concept is a promising development in this regard. It is targeting a weight of 1,300 kg (approximately 2,866 pounds) and a top speed of 199 mph, showcasing both performance capabilities and sustainability. The car will be equipped with a single electric motor rated at 871 hp, powering the rear wheels. Two hydrogen tanks located at the rear of the vehicle will supply fuel to a mid-mounted fuel cell, generating electricity to power the motor. Additionally, a small lithium-ion battery, weighing less than 180 pounds, will store excess electricity and provide additional power during high-load situations.
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Although the MissionH24’s powertrain assembly and testing are scheduled to begin in October of this year, the complete assembly and on-track testing are not expected until early 2025. This timeline indicates that the ACO is serious about thoroughly developing and perfecting the technology before introducing it to the racing world.
Apart from hydrogen-electric vehicles, the ACO is also exploring the possibility of using internal-combustion engines that run on hydrogen. While burning hydrogen produces zero CO2 emissions, it does produce harmful nitrogen oxides, which need to be addressed through techniques such as urea-based selective catalytic reduction, similar to those used in modern diesel engines. Toyota, a prominent competitor in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, has already introduced a sports prototype race car concept powered by a hydrogen engine, showcasing their commitment to sustainable racing.
Other automakers are also joining the hydrogen revolution in motorsports. Alpine, a Le Mans participant, has unveiled its own concept car featuring a hydrogen engine, demonstrating their dedication to exploring alternative fuel options. Likewise, Porsche, the most successful automaker at Le Mans, has confirmed that it is actively developing a high-performance hydrogen engine, showing that hydrogen has gained traction as a viable solution for racing.
The efforts of Formula 1 and the ACO to reduce carbon emissions through the use of sustainable fuels and alternative energy sources in motorsports are crucial steps towards a more environmentally friendly future. By showcasing the potential of hydrogen and other sustainable technologies on the racetrack, these organizations are not only raising awareness but also inspiring innovation in the wider automotive industry. As these technologies continue to evolve and prove their performance capabilities, they will undoubtedly pave the way for cleaner and greener racing, setting a positive example for the entire automotive world.
