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Bosch Engineering and Ligier Automotive are pioneering the use of hydrogen fuel technology in motorsport, demonstrating the sustainability and efficiency of their latest hydrogen-powered vehicle, the Ligier JS2 RH2. This innovative vehicle recently completed rigorous high-speed tests and showcased remarkable endurance capabilities, indicating a sustainable future for the racing industry.
Key Highlights
- High-speed performance: The Ligier JS2 RH2 achieved top speeds of over 280 km/h.
- Endurance tested: Over 5,000 kilometers were covered, simulating the full Le Mans race distance.
- Innovative hydrogen use: Initial studies on liquid hydrogen storage are setting the stage for future advancements.
The collaboration between Bosch Engineering and Ligier Automotive has focused on refining the vehicle to meet the extreme demands of race-level performance. A 443 kW engine and a torque of 650 Nm were developed, ensuring the car could withstand the rigors of over 5,000 kilometers of race-condition testing. This development aligns with the ongoing shift towards sustainable energy sources in the automotive industry.
Dr. Johannes-Jörg Rüger, President of Bosch Engineering GmbH, emphasized the strategic advantage of this initiative: “This gives us an innovative edge in future hydrogen projects, both in motorsport and for high-performance sports cars.”
Exploring Liquid Hydrogen
The industry’s current focus on gaseous hydrogen storage faces limitations due to its lower density. Bosch Engineering and Ligier Automotive are exploring liquid hydrogen as a viable alternative, potentially offering greater efficiency due to its higher density. This exploration is part of broader efforts to enhance the environmental sustainability of racing vehicles without compromising performance.
Preparing for Le Mans
The Ligier JS2 RH2 is not just a test vehicle but a showcase piece in the world of motorsport innovation. It will participate in a world premiere demo lap at the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 15, 2024. This event is a significant milestone, as Jacques Nicolet, President of Ligier Automotive, states, “We are very proud to be part of the first manufacturers to see their hydrogen-powered car run on the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans track.”
In addition to its race track appearance, the Ligier JS2 RH2 will be on display throughout the Le Mans 24H week in the H2 Village, emphasizing its role as a symbol of future energy transitions in motorsport.
This initiative not only highlights the technological advancements of Bosch Engineering and Ligier Automotive but also reinforces the motorsport industry’s commitment to sustainable development and clean energy technologies.
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