Dr Kerry Kirwan led a research team from the University of Warwick to design and build a fully sustainable Formula 3 racing car.
In a world first, the sustainable car has been made from woven flax, recycled carbon fibre, recycled resin and carrot pulp. For fuel, it runs on biofuel made from chocolate and animal fats and is lubricated with plant oils.
Importantly, the car can reach a top speed of 135 mph, and can achieve zero to 60 in 2.5 seconds. It is also turbo charged to give the vehicle more torque.
Dr Kirwan explained that the idea behind the project was to show that "being sustainable and green can be incredibly sexy, fun and fast."
He also wants to show that motorsport does not always have to be wasteful. This project is "aiming to show ways for the future, for people to race and be green."
The car will make its competitive debut in the Formula 3 Championship final at Brands Hatch racing circuit in Kent on 17 October.
See the car in action here.
Fast and green
Meet Role Models looking into fuel cell technology.
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Date Published: October 09, 2009
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