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Sebastian Vettel shoots firm message to Mohammed Ben Sulayem as he supports zero carbon future for F1

Published 04/04/2024, 7:51 AM EDT

Sebastian Vettel, the legendary four-time world champion, may be contemplating a return from retirement. The German racer, celebrated for clinching consecutive titles with Red Bull Racing from 2010 to 2013, retired in 2022. However, rumors abound that the 36-year-old might fill the vacant seat at Mercedes, with Lewis Hamilton bound for Ferrari.

Amidst all this speculation, F1 has unveiled plans for a new synthetic fuel set to debut in 2026 as part of a comprehensive program to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. In light of these developments, Vettel has subtly signaled his support for a zero-carbon future in F1, directing a message towards FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. This gesture underscores the growing importance of sustainability in motorsport, hinting at an exciting future where performance meets environmental responsibility.

F1 aims to transition to synthetic sustainable fuel by 2030 in a bold step towards zero-carbon racing. The genesis of this transformative idea traces back to P1 Technology’s breakthrough at last year’s British Grand Prix. During a remarkable demonstration, Sebastian Vettel piloted Nigel Mansell’s championship-winning 1992 car, powered by P1’s fossil-free fuel.

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The German driver’s intent was clear: to showcase the feasibility of utilizing internal combustion engines from past and present race cars in a more environmentally sustainable manner. Recently, on BBC.com, Sebastian noted that it was “exciting” that F1 has worked to develop a synthetic sustainable fuel as part of its program to be net-zero carbon by 2030.

He later added, “It was long overdue. I think it’s important we demonstrate there are solutions and there are options we can take, alternatives, because you cannot hover around on based on fossil fuels forever. I felt it’s a bit late because the technology has been around for way longer, but anyway here it is so it’s good to do that step finally and it’s an absolute must.”

The 36-year-old’s actions and statements sent a resounding message to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, unequivocally expressing his support for the ambitious goal of zero-carbon racing. According to reports, Benjamin Pochammer, co-founder and COO of P1 Fuels, revealed their collaboration with F1 suppliers, setting the stage for future partnerships. F1’s move towards sustainable fuels heralds a crucial green transition. Let’s explore how introducing synthetic fuel will catalyze the decarbonization of F1 cars.

F1 to develop sustainable fuel by 2026

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Synthetic fuels, produced through industrial processes, emit only the carbon extracted from the atmosphere during production. These fuels can power standard internal combustion engines, offering a promising avenue for decarbonizing the automotive industry.

These innovations, set to debut in F1 by 2026 with new-generation hybrid engines, signify a significant step towards sustainability. While F1 has recently pledged to adopt fully sustainable fuels as part of its net-zero goals, an insider confirmed specifics regarding the fuel’s synthetic nature, as opposed to biomass-derived, to BBC Sport. Exciting developments in F1 aim to achieve eco-friendliness by 2026.

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What’s your take on F1’s move towards sustainable fuel and its impact on racing? share your thoughts in the comment section.

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Written by:

Ashwini Bochkeri is a Formula 1 writer at EssentiallySports. After acquiring her MBA, she steered into the realm of journalism. With 2 years of content writing experience at Net Profit Reality and having crafted 500-plus articles, social media posts & creatives she transitioned into her current role as an F1 writer.

Edited by:

Harshita

Sebastian Vettel shoots firm message to Mohammed Ben Sulayem as he supports zero carbon future for F1

F1 to develop sustainable fuel by 2026

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