From pioneering efficiency in racing to transforming automotive technology, Mercedes-Benz sets sights on reducing carbon footprint and pushing sustainability in Formula 1 and Formula E.
Mercedes-Benz, a powerhouse in motorsport, is shifting gears towards sustainability, unveiling an ambitious business strategy aimed at reducing carbon emissions in Formula 1 and Formula E. Embracing innovation, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology, the renowned automotive brand pledges significant carbon footprint reductions across its racing teams.
The Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team aims to slash CO2 emissions by 50% by 2022 compared to its 2018 benchmark. Already taking strides toward this goal, the team transitioned to renewable energy sources in its factories and committed to gold-standard carbon offsetting. This shift marks a pivotal step toward achieving a net-zero carbon footprint since 2020, encompassing development facilities in Brackley and Brixworth.
Mercedes' Brixworth technology hub, home to Mercedes-AMG High-Performance Powertrains (HPP) crafting powertrains for F1 and Formula E, generates over half its electricity through solar panels and an on-site CCHP plant. Committed to renewable energy sources, HPP aims to switch entirely to renewables for externally sourced energy by the end of the current year. Both Brixworth and Brackley centres hold the esteemed ISO 14001 environmental management system certification, underlining their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Beyond its own team, Mercedes-Benz champions sustainability within the racing arena, spearheading efforts toward carbon neutrality across Formula 1. Actively engaged in the FIA working group for sustainable fuels, Mercedes aims to boost renewable fuels and electric power in F1 hybrid power units in future regulations.
Leveraging its unique position in both Formula 1 and Formula E, Mercedes-Benz harnesses motorsport as a dynamic R&D platform, transferring cutting-edge technologies from race cars to road cars. Formula 1, with its rigorous technological landscape, propels Mercedes' prowess in digital tools and high-speed development for automotive innovations.
The pioneering hybrid engines introduced by Formula 1 in 2014, featuring an electric turbocharger and robust brake energy recovery systems, align with automotive industry advancements. The Mercedes F1 Power Unit's evolution from 44% to over 50% thermal efficiency showcases the race-to-road technology transfer, shaping highly efficient road car drivetrains.
This collaborative synergy extends beyond powertrains to intricate electric and electronic systems shared between F1 and FE. Engineers engage in a robust exchange of digital development processes and materials for high-performance electric motors, enhancing road and race car technology alike.
Mercedes-Benz is steering the course for a sustainable future, using digital development as a linchpin in race car evolution. With real-world testing limitations in F1, the brand's robust digital development process emerges as the bedrock for successful F1 seasons, underscoring the transformative role of digital transformation in automotive innovation.
The strides made by Mercedes-Benz in motorsport highlight a paradigm shift towards sustainability, embracing innovation and digital prowess to redefine the future of racing and automotive technology.
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