Extreme H tests hydrogen challenger on championship course in Scotland
Following the global launch of Extreme H, the world’s first hydrogen-powered motorsport series, the championship has debuted its innovative hydrogen challenger, the Pioneer 25, at the Extreme E Hydro X Prix in Scotland.
This marks the first public test of the vehicle on a championship course.
Tested by Extreme H development driver Hedda Hosås, the Pioneer 25 was put through its paces at the former Glenmuckloch open cast coal mine site ahead of the 2024 Hydro X Prix event in Dumfries and Galloway on 13-14 July. The car, adorned in a special Red Bull livery to celebrate the energy drink giant’s partnership as the series’ Official Energy Drinks Partner, demonstrated the potential of hydrogen technology in motorsport.
Extreme H represents a significant leap towards sustainable energy in racing, showcasing the capabilities of hydrogen fuel cells. The debut season of Extreme H is scheduled to begin in April 2025, with more announcements to follow.
Mark Grain, Technical Director at Extreme H, stated, “Testing the Pioneer 25 on an official championship course for the first time marks another major milestone in the development of Extreme H. This series is the first-ever testbed of hydrogen technology in motorsport, encompassing racing cars, transportation, infrastructure, refueling processes, and safety regulations. The Pioneer 25 has undergone rigorous testing to prepare for its debut, highlighting our commitment to advancing hydrogen technology and sustainability in motorsport.”
The Pioneer 25, designed by Spark Racing Technology and equipped with a 75kW hydrogen fuel cell from Symbio, aims to set new standards in eco-friendly motorsport. The hydrogen fuel cell powers a battery pack produced by Fortescue ZERO, with the car featuring new suspension geometry and adjustable shock absorbers from FOX. This setup allows the 2200-kilogram, 2.4-metre-wide car to achieve a peak output of 400kw (550hp), accelerating from 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds and scaling gradients of up to 130 per cent.
Hydrogen fuel cells, which provide the energy source for Extreme E’s vehicle batteries, are becoming increasingly prevalent in motorsport technology. The Pioneer 25 showcases the viability of hydrogen as a sustainable and powerful energy source.
Viewers in the UK can watch Extreme E’s return to racing on ITV3, with Grand Finals broadcast live from 1500-1700 BST on both 13 and 14 July. For international viewers, further broadcaster details are available online.
