eFuels in motorsport –
what advantages do synthetic fuels offer?
The world of motorsport is changing. The reasons include climate policy objectives, technological developments and the search for different propulsion and fuel options. Various racing series are adopting electric propulsion and alternative fuels. These alternative fuels include what are known as eFuels.
Frequently asked questions answered by the eFuels Forum:
- What exactly are eFuels?
- Are synthetic fuels a real alternative in motorsport?
- Can eFuels also be used in Formula 1?
- Where have eFuels already been used in motorsport?
- How are eFuels produced?
- How much does a litre of synthetic diesel generally cost?
- What advantages do eFuels offer over electric propulsion?
- What applications are eFuels being considered for?
Always stay up to date with eFuels?
What exactly are eFuels?
eFuels are synthetic fuels that can be produced from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. One characteristic of eFuels is that they can be used in combustion engines without major technical modifications.
Synthetic fuels have a similar composition and similar properties to fossil fuels such as petrol or diesel. The greenhouse gas balance of eFuels depends on various factors, including the source of the energy used and the production conditions.
eFuels in motorsport – a real alternative?
Yes, synthetic fuels can be a real alternative in motorsports . Unlike battery electric vehicles, which are not yet suitable for all types of motorsports due to their limited range and charging time, combustion engines with synthetic fuels offer an immediate alternative. This can be easily integrated into existing motorsport series.
In addition, the use of synthetic fuels in motorsports also creates opportunities for research and development.
Good to know: Although synthetic fuels are currently more expensive to produce than fossil fuels, interest and investment in synthetic fuel production is growing. Therefore, as demand increases and technology advances, it is expected that costs will reduce and synthetic fuels will become a fully competitive option in motorsports and other industries
Can eFuels also be used in Formula 1?
Yes. As Formula 1 continues to use combustion engines, eFuels could, in principle, also be used in motorsport. Their similar properties to conventional fuels mean they can be used in combustion engines. However, broader use would have to take account of Formula 1’s technical requirements, fuel specifications and regulations.
Have eFuels already been used in motorsport?
Yes, eFuels have already been used in motorsport. One example is the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup series, which has used a mixture of eFuels and conventional petrol since the 2021 season. In 2022, there was also a world premiere for eFuels at the Nürburgring 24-hour race in the Toyota GR Supra GT4. The racing car successfully competed using Racing eFuels 98 synthetic fuel from CAC.
In motorcycle racing, for example, eFuels are scheduled for use in MotoGP from 2024. Further demonstrations took place at the Jump & Race Masters in Kiel in 2023.
Other racing series, such as the ADAC GT Masters, have also announced plans to switch to eFuels in future. The 2023 DKM kart racing series already runs on 100% eFuels.
eFuels production: How are eFuels produced?
eFuels are produced by using renewable electricity, carbon dioxide (CO2) and water . The production process is called “power-to-liquid” and consists of several steps:
- Electrolysis: In this step, water is split into oxygen and hydrogen using renewable electricity.
- Synthesis: In this step, carbon dioxide (CO2) is captured from the air or from industrial waste gases and converted together with hydrogen into a synthesis gas.
- Fischer-Tropsch synthesis: The synthesis gas is then converted in a further step in a so-called Fischer-Tropsch reactor to liquid hydrocarbons, which can then be used as eFuels.
eFuels costs: What does a liter of synthetic diesel generally cost?
The price of 1 liter of eFuels depends on various factors, such as the type of eFuels, production method, and demand. Currently, eFuels are not yet available on a large scale, so prices are still higher compared to conventional fuels.
However, prices are expected to decline over time as eFuels are produced on a larger scale. It is then estimated that the production price is 1 euro per liter.
What advantage do eFuels have over electric drives in motorsports, for example?
eFuels have the advantage over electric propulsion in motorsport that they currently have a higher energy density and can therefore deliver higher power. Furthermore, they can be used in existing racing machines with internal combustion engines – whether in a race car, motorcycle or kart – without any conversion. This is particularly important for historic racing vehicles, which may not be converted due to their historical value.
In addition, eFuels will be able to be produced in large quantities in the future. Therefore, unlike electric drives, they can be deployed without extensive infrastructure. This is particularly advantageous in long-distance races where rapid refueling is required.
What applications are eFuels being considered for?
eFuels are being discussed as a possible fuel option in motorsport, among other areas. Their similar properties to conventional fuels mean that, in principle, they can be used in existing combustion engines.
eFuels are also being considered for a range of other applications, including aircraft, ships and heavy commercial vehicles. Different propulsion solutions are being discussed in these areas, taking account of the relevant technical requirements and operating profiles. One important characteristic of eFuels is that they can be used in many existing combustion engines. Depending on the application, existing vehicles, engines and parts of the existing infrastructure can continue to be used. This can be particularly relevant in areas where extensive combustion engine and refuelling infrastructure is already in place.
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