Green speed soon to spur A1GP World Cup of Motorsport?

As a concept, A1GP World Cup of Motorsport differentiates itself from other global motor racing organizations. The body responsible for running A1GP recently announced a further major initiative to move as quickly as possible to bio-ethanol engined-cars using 30% ethanol fuel. This is designed to drive ,with other measures, a reduction in carbon emissions, and use carbon-offsetting for unavoidable emissions.

With a global audience now covering 150 countries, A1GP is fully aware of its responsibility as a sport with a significant carbon footprint, and is intent on reducing its environmental impact.
Sourced from sugar beet in Europe and specifically produced for the A1GP series, the E30 bio-fuel produces less harmful particulate matter than conventional fuels and will reduce the amount of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. By implementing E30, A1GP are expecting to reduce CO2 emissions per car by 21% in a racing season based on a well to wheel basis calculation. There are however some technical issues yet to be resolved . Although extensive tests under road conditions have been successfully conducted ,there are present concerns about whether the required performance can yet be sustained over very long periods.

A1GP’s chief executive officer, Pete da Silva said: ‘It is highly regrettable that we have not been able to start A1GP’s third season [from 30th September 2007] running on our planned bio-fuel mix. We have undertaken 4,600 kilometres of testing which has already successfully demonstrated that an international race series can remain exciting and competitive while also taking account of its environmental impact. However, we must ensure that the long term impact of our fuel change does not impact on our on-track action.

‘The launch of our THINK Greener Racing policy at Silverstone last month was warmly accepted by the industry and key environmental leaders and remains at the centre of our business strategy moving forward.’

I wish them all success, and will bring any further news about this very important environmental initiative.

Launched in 2004, A1GP World Cup of Motorsport is an entirely new concept where driver is pitted against driver ,and country is against country ,for the first time in history. In addition to the traditional motorsport fan base, A1GP attracts a new audience passionate about their country and heritage. A1GP brings together 22 nations in 11 races in 10 countries to compete as equals without financial or technological advantage. A1GP is keen to allow fans to interact with teams and drivers as part of its inclusive approach. Because A1GP is a single make series it is possible to implement change and technological advances more quickly and holistically.