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TRAXXAS SILVER CROWN SERIES TO USE ETHANOL FUEL BEGINNING IN 2012
The United States Auto Club has a proud history of being a leader in motorsports, and our mission of improving driver safety, fan experience and economic impact for the community. As our society becomes increasingly aware of the environmental concerns we face for future generations, it is important for USAC to assure we are looking forward.
For the past six months USAC has conducted significant research into the study of bio-based fuels for our sport. In July, USAC announced a new partnership with Ignite Ethanol Racing Fuels, a bio-based performance ethanol blended specifically for motorsports to further our research and development efforts. This announcement included the approved use of Ignite Ethanol Racing Fuels in all USAC racing series as an optional fuel.
Our most recent findings have proven there are significant advantages to the use of ethanol based fuels over methanol for racing applications, with virtually no need for major changes required for the race vehicle. Bio-based fuels, such as ethanol, have been proven to be a cleaner burning fuel by up to 60% over conventional gasoline powered vehicles. Perhaps most significant is the use of ethanol versus methanol results in a fuel mileage increase of greater than 40%, with less fuel required resulting in a major safety enhancement. Additionally, we have found a safer environmental impact of the bio-based fuel versus methanol as a cleaner and safer fuel from a motorsports perspective, from fire control and spill containment.
In 2012, USAC will require the use of Ignite Ethanol Racing Fuel 114 Red for the USAC Traxxas Silver Crown Series as a specified fuel to assure consistency and equality for all competitors. Silver Crown cars, with significant fuel load required for longer races, will find an immediate safety benefit with this new direction. While ethanol prices are currently higher than menthanol racing fuels, the savings in fuel mileage will result in an overall savings for teams.
To aid in the transition, USAC has worked with Ignite Fuels to ensure a discounted price guaranteed to USAC Members and with a new 2012 Silver Crown Owners License, USAC will provide a 55 Gallon drum of Ignite Fuel free to kick off this new partnership. Additionally, USAC has partnered with Kinsler Fuel Injection Systems as a technical partner in the transition and will be announcing a discount program for USAC Members on fuel components as smaller nozzels will be likely needed due to the lower fuel demand.
USAC is currently reviewing the use of Ignite Ethanol as a spec fuel in the Focus Midget Series. The use of a stable and common fuel source for a controlled spec series is very desirable to assure equal competition, with the ability to quickly monitor compliance at the track. A decision and announcement is expected by December 1st after testing is completed.
USAC and Ignite will host a Ethanol Fuel seminar at the IMIS Trade Show in Indianapolis on Thursday December 8th. All The seminar will be open to all racers and interested parties.
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