Speed Record from LPG Racer with Euro Space Agency Technology

15 November 2004

The European Space Agency (ESA) reports on its technology support for a  “green” racing car created by  the non-profit organisation Idée Verte  [Green idea] Compétition. Running on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and lubricated with sunflower oil, the car uses ESA materials to protect against fire hazards. Last week the car set a new speed record of 315 km/h (196 mph).

The Idée Verte Compétition was founded in 1993 as a non-profit organisation made up of independent engineers and technicians concerned about the environment and the pollution generated by cars. As motor sport enthusiasts, the objective was to create a non-polluting racing car.

The car uses a 3.3-liter 370-hp V6 engine with an LPG injection system designed and built by Idée Verte.