Extreme E organisers have announced the launch of a new hydrogen-powered spin-off category, called Extreme H, which is set to become the first official FIA world championship to use hydrogen fuel. The new category will feature off-road SUV-styled buggies, similar to those used in the existing Extreme E series, but with an electric powertrain replaced by a hydrogen version, most likely a hydrogen fuel cell system.
Extreme E founder Alejandro Agag has revealed plans for the new category to run alongside Extreme E and follow the same format. The races will take place on off-road courses located in extreme locations that have been heavily impacted by climate change. Each team will consist of a female and male driver who will switch mid-race.
Extreme E has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with the FIA, the governing body of motorsport, to launch Extreme H as an official FIA championship in 2025. This coincides with Extreme E becoming an officially FIA-recognized series for the first time. If certain criteria are met, Extreme H will become an official FIA world championship from 2026 onwards, joining the ranks of only seven other series that hold this prestigious title, including the electric Formula E world championship.
Extreme E founder Alejandro Agag expressed his excitement about the development of the championship and the transition to hydrogen-powered racing. He believes that sport is a powerful platform for driving innovation and is committed to delivering sustainable motorsport championships that are both exciting and have a reduced carbon footprint.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem also emphasized the importance of using sustainable power sources in motorsport and stated that hydrogen is a crucial part of the mix. The FIA has developed a set of safety regulations for hydrogen-powered vehicles as part of its International Sporting Code.
The new Extreme H category will benefit from a similar architecture to that of Extreme E events. Typically, electricity to power the cars is generated on-site using solar panels. This energy is then converted into hydrogen, which is used to power electricity generators.
The introduction of the Extreme H series marks a significant step forward in the development of hydrogen-powered racing. Hydrogen fuel cells offer several advantages over traditional electric powertrains, including faster refueling times and longer ranges. This makes them particularly well-suited for off-road racing, where endurance and performance are crucial.
Furthermore, the use of hydrogen as a fuel source aligns with the global push for decarbonization and the transition to renewable energy. Hydrogen is a clean and abundant resource that can be produced using renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power. By showcasing the potential of hydrogen fuel cells in motorsport, Extreme H has the opportunity to inspire further innovation and adoption of hydrogen technology in other industries.
The launch of Extreme H as an official FIA world championship also highlights the growing recognition of alternative fuel technologies in motorsport. As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification and decarbonization, it is crucial for motorsport to lead the way and demonstrate the performance and viability of these technologies in a competitive environment.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Extreme H series as a hydrogen-powered spin-off category is a significant milestone for motorsport. It not only showcases the potential of hydrogen fuel cells in racing but also reinforces the commitment of Extreme E and the FIA to sustainable and innovative motorsport championships. With its unique format and off-road races in extreme locations, Extreme H has the potential to captivate audiences and inspire further advancements in hydrogen technology.