# Racing’s Journey with Hybrid Powertrains: A Challenging Path to Sustainability
In the last ten years, motorsport has increasingly turned to hybrid powertrains, inspired by the achievements of competitions such as Formula 1 (F1) and the World Endurance Championship (WEC). Racing, which transcends mere speed and talent, has long been a proving ground for automotive advancements that ultimately filter down to consumer cars. From safety belts to rearview mirrors, numerous technologies we now consider standard were initially trialed on the race circuit. Nonetheless, the recent foray into electrification within motorsport seems to be encountering obstacles, as two significant racing championships—the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and the World Rally Championship (WRC)—prepare to ditch hybrid systems in favor of sustainable fuels.
## The Emergence of Hybrid Powertrains in Racing
The hybrid transformation in motorsport took off in earnest in the early 2010s. Formula 1 officially embraced hybrid power in 2009, and by 2014, it mandated that all cars incorporate two intricate energy-recovery systems. These systems not only enhanced fuel economy but also delivered a performance uplift by capturing energy from braking and exhaust emissions.
Concurrently, endurance racing marked its first hybrid triumph at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2012. Audi, Porsche, and Toyota all heavily invested in hybrid technology for their WEC efforts, with budgets reaching into the hundreds of millions of dollars each year. These initiatives were not solely about clinching victories but also about highlighting the manufacturers’ dedication to sustainability and cutting-edge technology.
As hybrid technology evolved, it began to permeate other racing series. In 2022, both the World Rally Championship and the British Touring Car Championship implemented standardized hybrid systems. North America’s IMSA WeatherTech series followed in 2023 with its newly established GTP class, which also included hybrid powertrains.
However, the integration of hybrid systems into these series was frequently more about image than performance enhancement. Automakers such as Acura and Cadillac reportedly would not have supported their IMSA prototype initiatives without the hybrid element, as it fit into their broader corporate sustainability aspirations. Yet for numerous teams and enthusiasts, the hybrid systems introduced additional complexity and expense without a meaningful improvement in the racing experience.
## BTCC: Bidding Farewell to Hybrids
The British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) was among the first prominent racing series to declare its exit from hybrid powertrains. Beginning in 2025, the BTCC will discontinue the use of hybrid systems, which currently offer a 60-horsepower increase for brief periods during races.
“The hybrid era was a remarkable one for the BTCC,” commented Alan Gow, BTCC’s chief executive. “Six years ago, when we first introduced hybrid, it was still a nascent technology within motorsport. We have successfully concluded that program—and truly have nothing more to demonstrate in that regard—while others are still striving to catch up.”
Rather than depending on electric motors for additional power, BTCC vehicles will revert to utilizing their turbochargers. This transition will also lead to a considerable weight reduction, as the electric motor and battery will be eliminated, dropping 122 lbs (55 kg) from each vehicle. The lighter cars are anticipated to be more agile and equally fast, while the financial burden on teams will lessen, as they will no longer need to rent hybrid systems for tens of thousands of dollars each year.
In lieu of hybrid systems, the BTCC will require the implementation of a new fossil-free fuel known as Hiperflo ECO102 R100, produced by Haltermann Carless. This fuel is composed of a blend of synthetic and biological materials, consistent with the series’ pledge to sustainability.
## WRC: A Parallel Transition
Following the BTCC’s lead, the World Rally Championship (WRC) declared that it would similarly phase out hybrid powertrains. Beginning in 2025, Rally1 vehicles will no longer include the plug-in hybrid units introduced just a few years earlier.
The choice to eliminate hybrid systems from WRC vehicles stemmed from a goal to cut costs, reduce complexity, and lessen weight. The hybrid systems added 176 lbs (80 kg) to the cars, and their exclusion will result in lighter and more nimble vehicles. To ensure performance consistency with existing WRC cars, the internal combustion engines will be slightly de-tuned by employing a smaller air restrictor.
“After extensive discussions with key stakeholders, it became apparent that continuing the use of plug-in hybrid units under the current supplier agreement was no longer the most advantageous course for the FIA World Rally Championship,” stated Xavier Mestelan-Pinon, the FIA’s Chief Technical and Safety Officer.
Much like the BTCC, the WRC will transition to a fully sustainable fuel, likely sourced from Haltermann Carless, which currently provides the series with its control fuel.
## What Lies Ahead for Formula 1?
While both the BTCC and W
