Want to Become an Auto Mechanic? Check Out the Future of Renewable Racing Fuel
Any motorsport enthusiast looks forward to race days, where cars are pushed to their limits with expert drivers behind the wheel while the crowd roars. Hitting some of the highest speeds in racing of up to 380 km/h, the IndyCar series is one of the most popular motorsports in the world.
At the end of May, Shell made the revolutionary announcement that as of next season the IndyCar Series will be powered by 100% renewable fuel. This will make IndyCar the first major motorsport series to do so. Currently running on a fossil-based variation of E85 fuel, this dramatic switchover will result in at least a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
IndyCar is not the only motorsport to initiate such a transition. Formula 1 has also made the promise that they will turn to 100% renewable racing fuel by 2025. Moto GP will make the switch by 2027. NASCAR also promotes renewable racing fuel with the use of Sunoco Green E15 fuel, which contains 15% ethanol.
If you’re interested in a career in the automotive industry, you’ll want to keep reading to learn more about this revolutionary fuel.
What is Renewable Racing Fuel?
If you want to become an auto mechanic, it’s likely you have some understanding of the fuels currently used in racing and everyday vehicles. Oil, natural gas, and coal are non-renewable fossil fuels and currently supply about 80% of the world’s energy. Gasoline is made by breaking down and distilling crude oil into petroleum.
The change proposed by Shell sees racing cars moving from fossil fuels over to biofuels. Unlike fossil fuels that were formed hundreds of millions of years ago and are limited in supply, biofuel comes from biomass, which quite simply means plant material or biowaste. Biofuel is renewable and can be reproduced in a short time. Ethanol is an example of a biofuel that is commonly derived from corn. Shell’s new product will consist primarily of ethanol produced from sugarcane waste.
Why is Renewable Racing Fuel Important?
As mentioned, the crude oil that gasoline is created from is a fossil fuel that is not renewable. Many experts agree that all fossil fuels could be depleted as early as 2060. This is the leading reason that the switch from fossil fuels to biofuels is imperative.
As well, the combustion of fossil fuels emits large amounts of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, which are referred to as greenhouse gas emissions. The transportation sector generates the largest amount of these emissions, compared to other industries. These emissions have a considerably negative effect on the environment, such as increased air pollution.
What It Means for the Industry If You Want to Become an Auto Mechanic
After your auto mechanic training, you’ll notice that many of the technological innovations and changes that are made at the racing level often find their way down to everyday vehicles. All-wheel-drive, active suspension systems, tire performance, disc brakes, aerodynamics, and safety advancements are all technologies that were influenced by motorsports. This suggests that the commitments to renewable fuel made by motorsports organizations are only the tip of the iceberg for the future of fuel.
One of the most exciting aspects of an auto mechanic career is the knowledge you’ll gain about the ever-evolving innovations to make cars stronger, faster, and now greener. At ATC Toronto, you’ll learn about the latest trends and technologies from our experienced instructors. With a comprehensive education in the classroom, in addition to hands-on shop training, you’ll be job-ready for this exciting and lucrative career.
Are you interested in getting your auto mechanic certification?
Contact ATC Toronto for more information.
