The prestigious Le Mans race was rather creative and forward thinking this year, hosting an event called “Le Mans into the future” prior to the 78th annual event.
The event highlighted unfolding eco-friendly concepts, hybrids and luxury technology. Eco vehicles made demonstration laps during the event, including the following models and brands:
1. Andros electric racecar
2. Audi R8 e-Tron concept
3. BMW Hydrogen 7
4. Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE
5. Peugeot RCZ Hybrid4
6. Porsche 911 GT3 Hybrid
7. Secma F16 Electrique
8. Tesla Roadster
9. Volkswagen Scirrocco Natural Gas
Le Mans is not a traditional style race because the winner is the vehicle that travels the farthest distance in a 24-hour time frame. For this reason, efficiency is the name of the game, and the “Future of Le Mans” pre-race event was entirely fitting and fun.
When you really think about it, racing is a contest of fuel economy, rather than simply speed. The less stops a car must make, the faster they will reach the finish, assisted by their power, of course. This theory holds true for long distance races, where it is necessary to refuel. Efficiency is king in longer distance racing, and Le Mans seems to be embracing a future of technology and showcasing the cars that will begin to deliver that change.
Yes, it certainly seems that the racing industry has began to explore alternative energy, starting with the revolutionary and diesel-powered Audi R10 racer a few years ago. Audi claimed all three spots on the podium that year, conquering Peugeot, who also used diesel power.
Currently, Audi, Porsche, and Ferrari have all created some form of adaption to technology, and this seems to have inspired other car brands. Everyone is predicting a green future, brimming with luxury hybrids, alternative fuels, reduced impact on the environment and dependence on fossil fuels. Imagine a Ferrari hybrid boasting as much power as its fuel-sipping predecessor! Technology is advancing in that direction!
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Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals