The IndyCar Series always has been recognized for its technical leadership in automobile racing. Now it will be the motorsports leader in renewable and environmentally responsible energy.
The ethanol industry has partnered with the IndyCar Series to become the fuel supplier beginning with the 2006 season.
Announcement of the partnership was made at Union Station in Washington, D.C., where Indy Racing League CEO Tony George, IRL President and COO Brian Barnhart and Senior Vice President of Business Affairs Ken Ungar teamed with several high-ranking ethanol industry leaders and political figures, including Sen. Jim Talent, R-Mo., Sen. Evan Bayh, D-Ind., and Sen. John Thune, R-S.D.
Ethanol is an alcohol derived primarily from grain. As a clean-burning and renewable fuel that is non-toxic and 100 percent biodegradable, it reduces air pollution and improves racing’s environmental footprint. Its high octane rating delivers strong engine performance by helping engines resist detonation so they can run higher compression ratios.
The target for the 2006 season is a maximum blend of 90 percent methanol and 10 percent ethanol for the IndyCar Series. The percentage of ethanol corresponds with ethanol blend commonly available to consumers at gas stations. Blend specifics will be determined in cooperation with the league’s 2006 engine manufacturer partners.
Beginning in 2007, the fuel will be 100 percent fuel-grade ethanol in IndyCar Series cars, the same fuel that has the potential to replace at least 10 percent of the nation’s gasoline supply.
The last paragraph mentioned on MAD Money yesterday.
from indycar.com
