Plans for bio-diesel in BTCC

County Durham company Scott Racing has announced plans to develop the first bio-diesel engine to race in the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship in 2007. It plans to enter the BTCC with its own car using a partially bio-diesel powered engine this year ahead of a full-season with a motor running 100 per cent on the environmentally friendly fuel in 2008.

The firm has already secured a £62,000 grant for its project from the Department for Trade and Industry (DTI) via regional development agency One NorthEast.

Company chief Tim Scott confirmed a five-strong team at Durham University’s Mountjoy Research Centre will progress engine development and added: “Most of the existing cars run on petrol with a few on bio-ethanol – no-one has yet run a fully bio-diesel powered car, as technically it is very challenging.

“The BTCC has led the way with regards to cleaner fuels; they are crying out for someone to bring in a bio-diesel car and they are very supportive of our development.

“I think we can make a diesel car competitive in the short-term and gradually ramp up the percentage of bio-diesel in the fuel to make a competitive bio-diesel touring car next year.”

BTCC Series Director Alan Gow added: “I’m delighted to hear of Scott Racing’s plans – which I certainly hope come to fruition. The BTCC would welcome bio-diesel technology and I’m surprised no competitor has yet taken this route. The BTCC is the premier motor racing championship in the UK meaning such a project will be closely followed by the media and public.

“In fact, I imagine that such a project would gather considerable intrigue and support from the many millions of fans who watch the BTCC at the circuit and on television each year.”