The Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) has marked a step towards sustainability by completing a successful trial of 100% sustainable fuel in a competitive racing environment. This test, conducted in Daryl DeLeon’s Duckhams Racing car with Un-Limited Motorsport at Silverstone, is part of the BTCC’s long-term goal to make all participating cars run on sustainable fuel in future seasons.
The BTCC has been working closely with its longstanding partner Haltermann Carless, a specialist in advanced fuels, to develop a viable sustainable alternative to its traditional fuel. The trial also received full support from the BTCC’s technical partners, including TOCA engine supplier M-Sport and Aero Tec Laboratories Ltd (ATL), a company specialising in fuel system components.
During the Silverstone race weekend, DeLeon’s car ran on the new Hiperflo ECO102 R100 fuel, which meets FIA standards for sustainable fuel and requires no modifications to existing engines. Notably, the fuel did not impact the car’s performance, recording comparable pace and efficiency to cars running the current controlled championship fuel. DeLeon completed a total of 319 kilometres without any fuel-related issues across all sessions.
Hiperflo ECO102 R100 is a fully sustainable fuel designed to deliver similar performance while achieving around a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, calculated on a well-to-wheel (WtW) basis. The BTCC estimates that, if adopted across the entire season for all cars, this fuel would cut CO₂ emissions by approximately 50,000 kg, equal to the weight of around 37 BTCC cars combined.
BTCC Chief Executive Alan Gow expressed optimism about the trial’s success and what it means for the future of the sport. “We are delighted with the significant progress we have made with regard to 100% sustainable fuel – working closely alongside Haltermann Carless and our teams,” Gow said. “This is an important and essential step for the BTCC as we continue to look to maintain the competitiveness and excitement synonymous with our championship, but in a more sustainable way.”
The trial aligns with Duckhams’ storied history in motorsports and dedication to innovation and sustainability. Founded in 1899 by Alexander Duckham, the brand has played a pivotal role in automotive history, supporting notable events such as the 1948 land-speed record, Formula 1, BTCC, and British GT championships. Over the years, Duckhams has partnered with iconic drivers like Ayrton Senna and James Hunt, and currently supports racing figures such as Dan Cammish and Daryl DeLeon.
Rajat Moitra, Chief Marketing Officer for Duckhams, highlighted the importance of sustainability to the company’s mission. “Sustainability is critical to the future success of Duckhams and our motor racing teams. We are delighted that the Duckhams BTCC racing team is playing a key role in the development of a more sustainable BTCC, continuing our legacy of innovation. Here’s to driving and winning together for the next 125 years!” Moitra said.
This successful test suggests a future where the BTCC could uphold its reputation for thrilling, high-speed competition while significantly reducing its environmental impact. With promising outcomes from the sustainable fuel trial, the BTCC appears closer to a future where top-tier motorsport and sustainability go hand in hand.