Competition is a great way to drive innovation, particularly if there are multiple ways to achieve an objective. The automotive industry needs to improve its sustainability, and it is interesting that motorsport are exploring multiple different ways to achieve this. Formula E are using electric motors. The new generation car / powertrain has just been launched and it is interesting to see the return of Lola - previously best known for chassis design, but now with a strong focus on the powertrain. Le Mans will feature a demonstration of multiple hydrogen sports cars this year, using both fuel cells and hydrogen combustion engines. Sustainable fuel was used in all Goodwood Member's Meeting races earlier this month. Formula 1 has announced plans to convert to sustainable fuel in 2026, but in the meantime has improved the efficiency of combustion engines from about 30-35% to over 50%, effectively getting 50% more benefit from the energy usage. I don't think there is a single 'right' way to become sustainable. Each of these solutions has benefits, and concerns; it will be interesting how the technology keeps evolving, but also how there may well be space for more than one solution in the future. #innovation
Great post Emile, and I agree that harnessing that competitive nature in people can lead to some great outcomes. Food for thought.
Matthew Lock
4mo
Great rationalisation with simplicity, it is important innovate.
Timothy Allen
4mo
Very insightful, thanks for posting Emile Naus
MOR-IT Managing Director & Motorsport Safety Team Marshal
4moWith 2.4Billion ICE engine's still on the planet, they are hear for MANY Years to come, no matter if anyone has a desire to rid the planet of them - Bio / Synthetic Fuel has to be one of the parts of the jigsaw of the future - Electric is here to stay, but its no longer a 'one size fits all' answer.