Celebrities and politicians yesterday put a range of low carbon vehicles through their paces during the Bridgestone Eco-Rally from Brighton to London.
Hundreds of people turned out to see the event with racing fans lining the streets to get a glimpse of F1 heroes, such as Nico Hulkenberg, Eddie Irvine and Patrick Head, just days before the Silverstone Grand Prix. Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Chris Huhne was also in attendance.
Former F1 racing champion, Eddie Irvine, said he was thrilled to be involved with the event. “I understand how important it is to combat our CO2 emissions and climate change. Having F1 names on board this year proves that sustainable motoring really has hit the mainstream.”
The Bridgestone Eco-Rally showcased the latest in low and zero emission vehicle technology and included a full range of eco-vehicles from the Gutsi Zero Bus to the Honda CR-Z hybrid. The Ford Fusion world record-breaking hybrid also took part, representing Ford’s automotive electrification plans for Europe.
The event was held in conjunction with Bridgestone and Revolve, an independent organisation established in London in 2006. Revolve encourages and promotes sustainable forms of transport, new fuels and technologies through high-profile events.The organisation is also aimed at assisting the evolutionary steps that must be taken by industrial innovators to reach the goal of zero emissions transportation.
TV motoring journalist, Quentin Willson, said: “Sustainable motoring really has hit the mainstream. The cars we drive and how they’re powered will never be the same again. For motorists who want cheaper fuel and energy choices this is only event in the world that showcases just how clever, usable and desirable green cars have become. I’m proud to be celebrating how the massive technological ingenuity of F1 and the global motor industry has made cars the cleanest and most efficient they’ve ever been.”
A free public exhibition at the finish line in Hyde Park provided additional information on eco-transport and introduced hundreds of people to new technologies such as electric motorbikes and solar-powered ferries.
