The IndyCar Series began its move to renewable fuels in 2006, switching from methanol-based fuels to an ethanol blend. The changeover to 100% ethanol took place in March 2007. With this bold move, the IndyCar Series became the undisputed motorsports leader in renewable and environmentally responsible fuel. This valuable endorsement proves that ethanol is a fast and safe fuel solution, even at the highest levels of auto racing.
High performance for all
All IndyCar Series cars use the same fuel to eliminate any competitive advantage a team might gain by using a specialized fuel. LifeLine Foods, a pioneer in both food and energy, is the official supplier of the 100% ethanol used in the IndyCar Series. Novozymes provides LifeLine with the enzymes it uses for ethanol production.
From a performance standpoint, the transition to ethanol from methanol-based fuel has been a huge success. Without any loss of horsepower or speed, the cars now burn 20,000 fewer gallons of fuel. And due to increased fuel mileage after the switch, the cars showcase a 22-gallon fuel tank. Prior to the move the tanks held 30 gallons.
The pure ethanol used in the series today has a higher octane rating (113) than the methanol blends (107) used previously. The octane rating of gasoline measures the ability of the fuel to resist being ignited by the heat and pressure caused by compression (preignition or knocking/pinging). Preignition can rob the engine of its power. A higher octane rating indicates a higher-performing fuel.
Team Ethanol in the lead
The ethanol industry itself sponsors a car in the IndyCar Series – the #17 Rahal Letterman Racing Team Ethanol Honda/Dallara/Firestone. ICM, Poet, and Fagen, Inc. are the primary sponsors of Team Ethanol. Novozymes is also a proud and active participant in the program.
2008 has been a very good year for Novozymes and Team Ethanol. Thanks to the excellent driving skills of Ryan Hunter-Reay, on July 6 Team Ethanol enjoyed its first IndyCar Series victory at the Camping World Grand Prix in Watkins Glen, New York.
Joining in the fun
Although the IndyCar Series was the first to use ethanol blends and then 100% ethanol, others are quickly following suit. The American Le Mans Series, Sprint Car Series, Fun Car Series, and the Modified Series are also on the way.
So the message is not only clear but powerful: If a 650-horsepower IndyCar Series car, which can cover the length of a football field in 1 second, can run safely and effectively on 100% ethanol, then your vehicle can run well using an ethanol blend. Next time you are at the pump try choosing an E10 or E85 blend.