The FIA Extreme H World Cup, the world’s first hydrogen-powered off-road motorsport, marked a major milestone today as Spark Racing Technology completed production of its fleet of ten Pioneer25 race cars.
The Pioneer 25, built to meet the FIA’s rigorous safety and performance standards, represents the pinnacle of hydrogen-powered racing innovation. Equipped with cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cells, the cars emit only water vapour, highlighting the series’ unwavering commitment to sustainability. The vehicles feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering up to 400kW (550hp) of power, and are capable of tackling the toughest terrains with precision and speed.
Alejandro Agag, CEO of Extreme H, visited Spark Racing Technology HQ on the outskirts of Paris, France, to witness the production firsthand. He commented:“The production of our ten car race fleet marks a major milestone as we move closer to the launch of the FIA Extreme H World Cup. These cars are not just groundbreaking in terms of technology; they represent the future of sustainable motorsport, and we are ready to go.”
Nicolas Wertans, Chairman of Spark Racing Technology, added: “Spark Racing Technology is incredibly honoured to deliver the Pioneer 25 race cars for the FIA Extreme H World Cup. This project has pushed the boundaries of hydrogen technology in motorsport, combining advanced engineering with sustainable innovation. We believe these vehicles will set a new standard for hydrogen-powered competition and inspire the future of clean energy solutions.”
The car is designed and manufactured by Spark Racing Technology and equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell from Symbio, and has undergone an intensive testing program equivalent to three seasons of racing in readiness for its debut campaign.
Symbio has provided a 75kW hydrogen fuel cell replacing the battery as the principal energy source. The hydrogen fuel cell powers the battery pack that is produced and supported trackside by Fortescue ZERO. Hydrogen fuel cells represent a technological revolution that is now becoming a widespread reality, with this technology already being used behind the scenes in Extreme E, where it provides the energy source to the vehicle’s batteries.
The Pioneer 25’s peak 400kw (550hp) output is capable of firing the 2200 kilogram, 2.4 metre-wide race car from 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds and scale gradients of up to 130 per cent.
Each Pioneer 25 raced in Extreme H comprises a common package of standardised parts from Spark Racing Technology. The open areas for teams is the hydrogen fuel cell, which gives a crucial opportunity to test out this technology, plus the ability to style bodywork elements in order to replicate the look of everyday car models.
Extreme H builds on the foundation of Extreme E, the electric off-road championship that has pushed boundaries in performance, equality, and environmental awareness. Extreme H, which will get started later in 2025, will continue this legacy by demonstrating the viability of hydrogen as a clean energy solution while delivering thrilling racing action.
With production now complete, the countdown to the FIA Extreme H World Cup is officially underway fans around the world can anticipate a groundbreaking series that combines cutting-edge technology, sustainable innovation, and high-adrenaline competition. Further details on the competition will be announced over coming months.
COMMENTS