By IANS,
Sydney : Researchers have unveiled the first hydrogen-powered racing car that demonstrates the incredible possibilities of hydrogen as the clean, renewable fuel of the future.
The car will be bidding for the title of world’s fastest hydrogen-powered racer when it attempts in early 2009 in Germany to break the Guinness World Records’ mark for speed by a vehicle of its class.
Powered by an internal combustion motorcycle engine that has been modified to run on hydrogen, the racing car is expected to reach speeds of up to 170 kmph in its world record bid, according to a statement of the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT).
Aleksandar Subic, who heads the School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, said the RMIT collaboration with Germany’s Fachhochschule Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences on the hydrogen car project could radically change the world’s approach to automotive technologies.
“This is a demonstration vehicle for the future – a car that is powerful, fast and runs on clean, sustainable fuel,” Subic said.
“By aiming to set a new speed record for one-seater, hydrogen-powered racing cars, we want to show the world the possibilities of this alternative clean technology, both for ordinary vehicles and in racing.
“Our work will have benefits for all cars but we also hope it could lead one day to a first in racing – a clean and green Formula 1 competition.”