From the Farmyard to the Brickyard
The Indy Racing League (IRL) will power its racecars with ethanol beginning in the 2006 season.
Compiled by staff
Published: Mar 3, 2005
The Indy Racing League (IRL), home of the Indianapolis 500, will power its racecars in a homegrown way beginning in 2006.
The Series currently fuels its cars with 100% methanol, a natural gas-based fuel. Beginning in 2006, the cars will run on a 10% ethanol blend. By 2007, all IndyCar Series cars will run on 100% ethanol. In addition to the switch to ethanol, a Team Ethanol car will begin competing in the IndyCar Series this year.
"It only makes sense to have the Great American Race powered by ethanol — the great American fuel," states Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) President Bob Dinneen. "In earlier years of racing at •The Brickyard,' cars have been fueled with ethanol. By returning to its roots, the IRL is signaling a strong commitment to clean fuel, energy security and the American farmer."
IRL made the announcement today at historic Union Station on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. IRL Chief Executive Officer Tony George, IRL President Brian Barnhart and Sr. Vice President of Business Affairs Ken Ungar were joined by several United States Senators in this historic announcement. The distinguished guests included Sen. Jim Talent, R-Mo., Sen. Evan Byah, D-Ind. and Sen. John Thune, R-S.D.
"We are proud to partner with the ethanol industry to showcase a great American fuel source," says IRL's Ungar. "We feel a commitment to the environment and our country's energy security is consistent with our sports' legacy of race-bred innovation and leadership."
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