FIA deliver first barrels of sustainable fuel to F1 power unit manufacturers as part of net zero carbon push

The FIA have this week delivered the first barrels of a brand new sustainable fuel to Formula 1’s power unit manufacturers, and have committed to becoming carbon neutral from next year, and net zero by 2030.

On Thursday, motorsport’s governing body approved an ambitious environmental strategy plan aimed at reducing the environmental impact of motorsport and mobility by setting clear goals to accelerate this progress.

The turbo-hybrid power units brought into F1 in 2014 were part of a push towards greater sustainability, but now the FIA is launching a much bigger step change on this front.

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One of the most significant steps on the road to reducing carbon emissions has been the research, development and production by the FIA’s Technical Department of a 100% sustainable fuel, developed to stringent F1 specifications, and able to power Formula 1 cars.

A second-generation biofuel variety – meaning it is exclusively refined using bio-waste, not intended for human or animal consumption – the first barrels are now with F1’s power unit manufacturers Mercedes, Ferrari, Renault and Honda, for testing and validation.

The objective is to demonstrate that the technology works and to lead F1 suppliers to develop their own fuels, with the mandatory requirement of 100% sustainable fuels in F1 targeted by the introduction of the new powertrain architecture. From 2021, other FIA championships such as the European Truck Racing Championship will also be able to use sustainable fuel.

Jean Todt, FIA President, said: “FIA takes its responsibility in leading motor sport and mobility into a low carbon future to reduce the environmental impacts of our activities and contribute to a greener planet.

"By developing fuel made from bio waste that can power Formula 1, we are taking a new step forward. With the support of the world’s leading energy companies, we can combine the best technological and environmental performance.”

Felipe Calderon, Chairman of the FIA Environment and Sustainability Commission, added: “The Environmental Strategy approved during the General Assembly week is key in consolidating FIA’s commitment to a low-carbon future.

"It will not only engage in a wide organisational effort to measure, reduce, offset and remove the emissions that result from its own activities – becoming carbon neutral from 2021 and net zero by 2030 – FIA will also take a leadership role, among other sports federations, in pushing for global climate action. This new strategy provides a whole framework to support its members in becoming more sustainable and build climate leadership themselves.”

Tap here to read more on the FIA’s new environmental plans.