The FIA World Touring Car Cup will use a sustainable biofuel for at least the next two years, after promoter Eurosport Events signed an agreement with German fuel supplier P1 Racing Fuels.
The initiative has been agreed with the support of the FIA, allowing the German innovation company to become the series’ official fuel supplier from its fourth year.
The appointment of P1 Racing Fuels came after a rigorous tender process overseen by the FIA Technical Department.
The formulation of the new biofuel seeks to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the global touring car series, whilst still enabling uncompromised engine performance.
The fuel will feature at least 15% renewable components, with the fuel derived from bioethanol produced from cellulose and ligneous biomass as well as bio-synthetic (full-renewable) fuel.
“The appointment of P1 Racing Fuels as the WTCR’s Official Fuel Supplier is an important first step towards the use of 100 per cent sustainable fuel in the series as outlined in the roadmap we have defined for the introduction of biofuel in WTCR,” said Alan Gow, President of the FIA Touring Car Commission.
“P1 Racing Fuels has not only delivered this bespoke product, it has done so on budget as part of ongoing cost-reduction measures.
“By working with P1 Racing Fuels, the WTCR teams and customer racing departments can continue to count on a high performance on track, as well as the support of an experienced and trusted partner during an exciting new era for the series.”
Martin Poplika, Chief Executive Officer, P1 Racing Fuels, is looking forward to working with the FIA WTCR partners to develop a 100% fossil-free racing fuel in the future.
“As a pioneer in our field, P1 Racing Fuels has always focused on delivering cutting-edge innovation in our products, using new processes, components and technical know-how to formulate sustainable, high-performing biofuels produced and delivered cost-efficiently,” said Poplika.
“We believe that the future of racing is fossil fuel-free, and we are very pleased to support the WTCR in taking this important step towards a more sustainable future for the sport.”
François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events, WTCR promoter, added that the announcement was part of further initiatives by the FIA and WTCR to enhance its sustainability.
“Switching the WTCR to biofuel from P1 Racing Fuels further demonstrates Eurosport Events’ objective to promote more sustainable motorsport,” added Ribeiro.
“The move also completely aligns the WTCR with the FIA’s #PurposeDriven movement environment pillar.”