FIA takes giant stride towards leading F1 into 100% sustainable fuel future

FIA - Formula 1

FIA takes giant stride towards leading F1 into 100% sustainable fuel future

First barrels of a new fuel sent to F1 power unit manufacturers for testing

Ian Parkes

Thursday 17 December 2020 14:11

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The FIA has revealed to introducing a 100% sustainable fuel developed to Formula 1 standards it now hopes will lead to the suppliers to the power unit manufacturers following suit.

It is part of what the FIA has described as "an ambitious environmental strategy plan" which includes a target of being carbon neutral in 2021 en route to being net-zero by 2030.

The FIA's technical department has researched, developed and produced a second-generation biofuel variety to power F1 cars that has been refined using biowaste, with the first barrels now with the power unit manufacturers for testing and validation.

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The objective of motorsport's governing body is to demonstrate the technology works and to lead F1 suppliers, such as Petronas and Shell, to develop their own fuels.

The plan then is for a 100% sustainable fuel to be introduced in tandem with the new power unit that is scheduled to run in either 2025 or 2026.

Formula 1 managing director motorsports Ross Brawn said: "Formula 1 has long served as a platform for introducing next-generation advancements in the automotive world.

"We are delighted by the momentum on sustainable fuels which perfectly aligns with our plan to be net-zero carbon as a sport by 2030.

"Our top sustainability priority now is building a roadmap for the hybrid engine that reduces emissions and has a real-world benefit for road cars.

"We believe we have the opportunity to do that with a next-generation engine that combines hybrid technology with sustainable fuels.”

In terms of the FIA being carbon neutral next year, this is building on a science-based target reduction plan aligned with the 'Paris Agreement 1.5°C objective'.

The commitment builds on the FIA’s increasing efforts to reduce the environmental impact of motorsport and mobility by setting clear goals to accelerate this progress. The Federation will work with its Members Clubs and championships to support their efforts to become carbon neutral by developing and improving environmental sustainability across its two pillars.

With 243 Members Clubs in 146 countries and 303 championships, the impact of the commitment will be felt globally and result in a significant reduction in carbon emissions and broader environmental impact.

FIA president Jean Todt said: “FIA takes its responsibility in leading motorsport and mobility into a low-carbon future to reduce the environmental impacts of our activities and contribute to a greener planet.

"I’m glad that our Members Clubs approve our environmental strategy that is part of the Purpose Driven initiative focused on the societal contribution of our two pillars.

"By developing sustainable fuel made from biowaste that can power Formula 1, we are taking a new step forward. With the support of the world’s leading energy companies, we can combine the best technological and environmental performance.”