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Putting Clean, Efficient Technology on the Fast Track Green Challenge Designed to Speed Innovations

Release Date: 10/03/2008
Contact Information: Suzanne Ackerman, (202) 564-4355 / [email protected]

(Washington, D.C. - Oct. 3, 2008) The American Le Mans Series' Green Challenge will be the first car race to use green racing protocols at the Petit Le Mans Race near Atlanta on Oct. 4. The protocols were developed by EPA, the Department of Energy and SAE International.

"The Petit Le Mans is the ultimate test track," said Margo T. Oge, director of EPA's Office of Transportation and Air Quality. "If clean efficient technologies can handle driving this track, then they certainly can work for your morning commute."

Officials from each organization will present the first ever Green Challenge award to the automotive powertrain manufacturer of the car that achieves the lowest green racing score. The score takes into account the amount of fuel consumed during the race, distance completed, speed, energy efficiency, and a well-to-wheels analysis of greenhouse gases emitted.

To achieve the best green score, cars will use renewable fuels, such as cellulosic E85, E10, and a blend of ultra low sulfur diesel fuel and diesel fuel made from natural gas, multiple propulsion systems, and regenerative energy technologies.

The ultimate goal is to use motor sports to help spur the development of cleaner, more fuel efficient technologies that will eventually be used in consumer vehicles. From the rear view mirror to disc brakes, innovations in safety, durability and performance made by race cars are often transferred to consumer vehicles.

The green racing protocols will be published later this year. Next year, the American Le Mans Series will incorporate the protocols into a season-long Green Racing Challenge Championship.

Information on green racing: epa.gov/otaq/ld-hwy/420f08031.htm