Latest news with #WorldEnduranceChampionship
NZ Autocar
3 days ago
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
Will Alpine launch a hydrogen-powered supercar eventually?
Alpine is continuing with development of its hydrogen-powered Alpenglow concept, now evolved into the Hy4 prototype. First revealed in 2022, the Alpenglow's transformation into the Hy4 suggests Alpine is increasingly serious about hydrogen combustion technology. The Hy4, built on a Ligier LMP3 racing chassis, swaps the original single-seat layout for a more conventional two-seat set-up, suggesting a shift towards a road orientation. The Hy4 was set to debut at the World Endurance Championship in Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium. However, an electrical fault prevented that. Alpine's design chief, Antony Villain, is still optimistic. He said that the Alpenglow was always envisioned for both road and track ends. Villain added that Alpine is considering a small production run of the hydrogen-powered supercar. He stressed that both hydrogen-combustion and battery-electric technologies are being pursued at present. Development was always aimed at eventual production, he said, calling the Alpenglow more of a 'programme' than a concept. Future versions will evolve with improved styling and added everyday utility. A critical part of this update is a new V6 hydrogen engine being developed entirely in-house by Alpine. It is set to replace the existing turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder sourced from motorsport partner Oreca. The new V6 should add both power and efficiency. The Hy4's range currently stands at around 100km at race pace. Le Mans racers generally run 10–20 laps of the 14km circuit before refueling so added efficiency is an imperative. Racing vehicles director François Champod stressed the engine will offer accessible, user-friendly power, unlike a high-revving F1 unit. There are still engineering challenges to overcome. Alpine's hydrogen engineer, Pierre-Jean Tardy, explained that while hydrogen combustion produces similar engine response and sound to petrol, it behaves differently. Running lean for efficiency and low NOx emissions leads to cooler exhaust gases, creating challenges for turbochargers, especially increased lag. In addition, hydrogen's wide flammability range complicates combustion control, increasing the risk of engine knock. Mixing hydrogen gas with air uniformly is another major stumbling block, especially at high engine speeds. Hydrogen is injected at very high velocities, making it harder to mix properly and increasing the risk of abnormal combustion. Temperature management within each combustion chamber must also be uniform to avoid reliability issues. Alpine acknowledges that its hydrogen-combustion technology is in its infancy. The V6 has only recently begun testing on a dynamometer. But the goal is to power the Alpenglow with hydrogen by year's end. While Alpine is eyeing entry into the hydrogen-combustion class at the 2027 Le Mans 24 Hours, it has not made a formal commitment yet. A road-going hydrogen car from Alpine remains a long-term possibility. Champod warned that the broader hydrogen infrastructure will determine its future. The current hydrogen refueling network can only support a limited number of vehicles. However, Renault Group's Hyvia venture, focused on hydrogen-powered vans, could aid infrastructure development. Trucks and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) are expected to lead the rollout of hydrogen stations, indirectly supporting niche vehicles like the Alpenglow. Fuel storage on board remains a significant challenge. Hydrogen tanks require more space than petrol equivalents—over 350 litres versus 50 litres—posing packaging problems. Moreover, Alpine insists hydrogen use must be 'clean' to justify its environmental benefits. That means only decarbonized hydrogen (with carbon capture) or green (via renewable-powered electrolysis).
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Verstappen opens door to F1 exit to race in other series with application to FIA
Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen is interested in competing in other series amid uncertainty over his future with Red Bull and he's now moved closer to making it a reality Max Verstappen has confirmed that he's taken steps towards racing outside of Formula 1. Verstappen, 27, has previously hinted at following in his dad Jos' footsteps by competing in other series. That's despite the Dutchman being the dominant force in F1, winning the last four Drivers' Championships with Red Bull. But amid uncertainty over his contract situation and having recently become a father, his long-term future in the sport has come into the spotlight. Now Verstappen has opened the door to competing in other racing events such as the World Endurance Championship and GT3. That's because Verstappen has successfully applied for a driver categorisation from the FIA. As an active F1 driver, the Red Bull star was guaranteed at least a Platinum rating. Driver categorisation is crucial for any driver who wants to compete in GT or sports car racing. Verstappen confirmed the news of his categorisation ahead of this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix. "I applied," he told media in Barcelona. "I have to do it at some point, so I better got it out of the way. I mean, it's super easy, it's just a form that you fill in and you pay and a week later you have the answer. I was secretly hoping for a Bronze rating; I might appeal the Platinum and get Silver at least!" On the weekend between the this month's Grands Prix in Miami and Imola, Verstappen drove a Ferrari 488 GT3 at the Nurburgring Nordschleife during an open practice day. The 27-year-old claims that he recorded a time below the existing lap record, with this year's Nurburgring 24 Hours event taking place between the Canadian and Austrian Grands Prix in June. That could be convenient for Verstappen, although he'd need more than his Platinum rating. Drivers also must obtain a 'Ring Permit' which comes from racing around Nordschleife in other competitions within a specific time period. For now, though, his focus is on victory in Spain - or at least maximising Red Bull's car. Currently third in the Drivers' Championship behind McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, Verstappen is pessimistic about his chances of retaining the title for a fifth year, as his previously dominant team continue to struggle for consistency this year. "For me, it doesn't really feel like a fight, to be honest," he admitted. "I just try to do my best, have a bit of fun out there. It's not like this season up until this point is going to be in my memory forever." Verstappen, who's won every Spanish Grand Prix since 2022, later added: "It's not that I don't believe. I just walk up to the track and I do the best I can every single weekend. I don't need to believe in it fully or not. "I know that every time that I go out there, I do the best I can. If that's with the car that is capable of P5, I will put it P5. If it's capable of winning, I'll win. "I just approach it very simple, which also doesn't eat up a lot of energy as well. So I have a lot of free time outside of that. It's not like trying to grab [the championship]. I mean, you can try and grab it, but if you don't have the car, there's nothing to grab."
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Valentino Rossi opens his Memory Box: The Ultimate Collection for his fans
Valentino Rossi, nine-time world champion, cultural icon, and undisputed MotoGP legend, is to open a new chapter in his illustrious career. The Italian, who retired from racing in MotoGP in 2021 and is now competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship, will soon launch his first-ever official memorabilia and collectibles collection, offering fans the chance to own exclusive pieces from both his time on two wheels and his current adventures in motorsport. Advertisement The memorabilia collection will be available exclusively at from today and will feature some of the most legendary items for collectors. Promising to cater to every type of fan and budget, the first selection of items will be released in three different stages, coinciding with the launch of the three categories: Authentics, Replica, and Collectables. The Authentics collection will feature a selection of original items used by Rossi throughout his career, including gloves, boots, and helmets to parts from the machines he raced on, but also celebrative and special pieces. Each piece carries its own story and is personally signed by The Doctor himself. Among the highlights of the first release are the four wheels from the car Rossi drove to victory at the GT World Challenge Europe in Misano in 2024 and the iconic cap he wore during his emotional farewell to MotoGP at the Valencia Grand Prix in 2021. Advertisement A week later, a second wave of items will be released from the Replica line — ideal for fans looking for something more accessible. This range will feature VR46 merchandise, including T-shirts and caps, all bearing Rossi's signature. Also included in this second launch are a 1:1 Bell replica helmet worn by Rossi in 2022 and a commemorative framed T-shirt from his 1997 world title season. Completing the line-up is the Collectables category, a dedicated range for collectors. This includes miniatures of Rossi's most iconic bikes, 1:2 scale helmets, and carefully crafted memorabilia connected to his career. Each item is signed and produced with meticulous attention to detail, making them perfect for display in any motorsport enthusiast's personal gallery. Looking ahead, Rossi also plans to auction off some of his most iconic and meaningful items, offering collectors the opportunity to secure truly historic pieces from a career that defined an era. A living legend Rossi's path to greatness began in 1997 when he secured his first 125cc world championship. From there, he quickly climbed the ranks, dominating 250cc before conquering MotoGP, where he became one of the sport's most recognizable and beloved figures. With nine world championships, 115 grand prix victories, and 235 podium finishes, his achievements remain unmatched. Advertisement Throughout his career, Rossi faced fierce rivalries with names like Max Biaggi, Jorge Lorenzo, Casey Stoner, and Marc Marquez, delivering unforgettable battles and dramatic showdowns. From his breathtaking last-corner win at Assen in 2015 to his final MotoGP victory in Valencia in 2017, Rossi consistently produced moments that left a lasting mark on the sport's history. This new memorabilia collection stands as a celebration of that legacy — a way for fans to own a genuine piece of racing history from one of motorsport's most unforgettable characters. To read more articles visit our website.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Cadillac unveils Wayne Taylor Racing's Le Mans livery
Cadillac unveiled the livery in which the Wayne Taylor Racing squad will make its maiden assault on the Le Mans 24 Hours next month. WTR's solo V-Series.R LMDh entered for the double-points round of the World Endurance Championship on 14-15 June will be backed by oil company Mobil 1. Advertisement The primary sponsorship by Mobil 1 of the Cadillac WTR Hypercar class entry follows the extension earlier this year of the partnership between Cadillac's new full-season representative in the WEC, the British Jota team which has moved across from running a pair of customer Porsche 963 LMDhs. It takes the place of DEX Imaging, the sponsor of WTR's two-car assault on the IMSA SportsCar Championship this year. The car was given a shakedown in its new livery at the Putnam Park circuit near Indianapolis last Friday prior to its shipment to Europe. The #101 WTR Caddy, to be raced by team founder Wayne Taylor's sons Ricky and Jordan and Filipe Albuquerque, is one of two additional entries from the General Motors brand at Le Mans this year. Advertisement It is joining Action Express Racing, which like WTR competes full time in IMSA. Action Express raced at Le Mans alongside Chip Ganassi Racing, which represented Cadillac in the WEC in 2023-24. Manufacturers contesting the full WEC are allowed to file additional entries for Le Mans, but do not score points with the extra cars. Mobil 1 strategic global alliance manager Tony Esposito said: 'This new livery reflects what our work with Cadillac is all about – performance, passion and pushing boundaries. 'We're thrilled to see it come to life on track at Le Mans, where our legacy in motorsport continues.' Jota's cars will retain the usual livery Jota's cars will retain the usual livery Paul Foster Paul Foster Advertisement Jota's pair of #12 and #38, will continue in the livery in which they have contested the opening three rounds of this year's WEC. The Action Express car, entered under the Cadillac Whelen banner, will run in the same colours as at Le Mans last year and with the race number #311 again. WTR is going to Le Mans for the first time with an impressive pedigree in North American endurance racing. It won the Daytona 24 Hours four times in five years between 2017 and 2021 with Cadillac and, in the last of those seasons, Acura, as well claiming Sebring 12 Hours victories with both manufacturers. Advertisement Wayne Taylor has made no secret that his desire to take a team he established in 2007 to Le Mans was one of the reasons for his return to the GM fold for this season after four years with Honda brand Acura in IMSA. He contested the race 13 times as a driver between 1987 and 2002, scoring a fourth on debut in the Kremer-run Porsche 962C and an LMP1 class victory driving a Doyle-Risi Racing Ferrari 333SP in 1998. To read more articles visit our website.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Who is Robert Shwartzman? Get to know the Prema Racing driver for the 2025 Indianapolis 500
If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission. Pricing and availability subject to change. Robert Shwartzman is a rookie for IndyCar Series newcomer Prema Racing. He qualified first for the May 25 Indianapolis 500 with a qualifying speed of 232.790 mph over four laps on the 2.5-mile Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval. Shwartzman is the first rookie to qualify for the pole position since Teo Fabi in 1983. Tony Stewart started first in 1996 after pole-winning driver Scott Brayton died in post-qualifying practice. Advertisement The Indy 500 will be Shwartzman's first career oval race. He is an endurance racing veteran and a former Formula 1 test driver. Here's what you should know about Robert Shwartzman: Robert Shwartzman, Prema Racing — Indy 500 driver profile Age: 25 Nationality: Israel Hometown: Tel Aviv, Israel Car number: 90 Race team: Prema Racing Engine: Chevrolet Best 2024 finishes: Shwartzman competed in the World Endurance Championship, winning the Lone Star Le Mans event in Austin, Texas. When is the 2025 Indy 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway? The 109th running of the Indianapolis 500 takes place Sunday, May 25, 2025. What is the 2025 Indy 500 start time? The green flag drops at 12:45 p.m. ET. 2025 Indianapolis 500 rookies These drivers are in the race for the first time: Louis Foster Robert Shwartzman Nolan Siegel Indy 500 tickets Buy Indy 500 tickets on StubHub What channel is the Indy 500 on? TV: Fox. Will Buxton is the play-by-play voice, with analysts James Hinchcliffe and Townsend Bell. How can I listen to, stream the 2025 Indy 500? IndyCar Nation is on SiriusXM Channel 218, IndyCar Live and the IndyCar Radio Network (check affiliates for each race) Robert Shwartzman 2025 IndyCar results St. Petersburg: 20th Advertisement Thermal: 22nd Long Beach: 18th Barber: 25th Indianapolis road course: 18th after starting 27th Open-wheel series: Here are the key differences between F1 and IndyCar in 2025 2025 IndyCar Series schedule The 2025 IndyCar Series schedule includes 17 races, all televised on Fox. (Times are ET; %-downtown street course, &-road course, *-oval) March 2, St. Petersburg, Florida % (Winner: Alex Palou) March 23, Thermal, California & (Winner: Alex Palou) April 13, Long Beach, California % (Winner: Kyle Kirkwood) May 4, Birmingham, Alabama & (Winner: Alex Palou) May 10, Indianapolis & (Winner: Alex Palou) Advertisement May 25, Indianapolis 500 *, 12:45 p.m. June 1, Detroit %, 12:30 p.m. June 15, St. Louis *, 8 p.m. June 22, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin &, 1:30 p.m. July 6, Lexington, Ohio &, 1 p.m. July 12, Newton, Iowa *, 5 p.m. July 13, Newton, Iowa *, 1 p.m. July 20, Toronto %, noon July 27, Monterey, California &, 3 p.m. Aug. 10, Portland &, 3 p.m. Aug. 24, Milwaukee *, 2 p.m. Aug. 31, Nashville *, 2:30 p.m. IndyCar drivers for 2025 (Team and drivers; *-Indianapolis 500 only) This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indy 500 driver profile: Robert Shwartzman, Prema Racing
