Q&A: Extreme E and GeoPura discuss hydrogen power for sustainable events

Motorsport has always been a proving ground for cutting-edge technology, and Extreme E is taking that legacy to the next level with Extreme H – the world’s first hydrogen-powered racing series.

By trading batteries for fuel cells, Extreme H is aiming to showcase hydrogen’s potential, not only in the high-octane rough and tumble world of racing, but also for event power as a whole.

One company driving this transformation is GeoPura, which supplies clean hydrogen energy solutions to support everything from vehicle charging, to the infrastructure powering ambitious events.

Extreme E recently spoke with Andrew Cunningham, CEO of GeoPura, to dig into the technology that’s driving hydrogen-powered racing forward.

Why hydrogen, and why now?

For Cunningham, the appeal of hydrogen lies in its transformative potential for zero-emission energy.

“At GeoPura, we see hydrogen as a game-changer in the quest for zero-emission energy,” he explained. “Unlike fossil fuels, hydrogen emits only water vapour when used, meaning we can deliver power without harmful emissions.”

While battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) dominate headlines, hydrogen’s edge lies in its ability to meet the demanding energy needs of high-performance motorsport.

Hydrogen acts as a reliable energy carrier, storing renewable energy produced from sources like solar and wind and delivering constant, on-demand power. This makes it perfectly suited to high-stakes events like Extreme H.

Proving hydrogen on the racetrack

Extreme H will be a showcase of hydrogen’s ability to thrive under extreme conditions. Motorsport is unforgiving, with rapid acceleration (up to 10Gs of force), endurance racing, and harsh environments testing every system to its limits.

“Motorsport environments push technology to its limits,” said Cunningham. “Extreme H requires rapid energy output, endurance, and resilience in challenging, remote conditions.”

From high heat and sandstorms to the relentless pace of competition, Extreme H demonstrates hydrogen’s ability to meet the demands of even the toughest environments.

The cars rely on fuel cells converting hydrogen into electricity, providing instant power without emissions.

From the pits to the big picture

But Extreme H isn’t just about the cars, as hydrogen extends its influence across the entire event set-up, powering everything from vehicle charging stations to broadcasting equipment.

Cunningham added: “Hydrogen can reduce emissions across many aspects of event operations, from transport to lighting, sound systems, and hospitality.”

For motorsport fans, this means a quieter, cleaner race-day experience – no more roaring diesel generators.

And for the planet, it means a significant cut to the emissions footprint that motorsport events typically carry.

Accelerating adoption

High visibility is crucial to hydrogen’s adoption, and Extreme H is delivering it. The series showcases its potential to fans and industries alike.

“Seeing hydrogen powering intense racing challenges changes perceptions,” Cunningham said. “It shows fans and industries that hydrogen isn’t just viable – it’s capable of high performance.”

The goal isn’t just to impress audiences but to also inspire investment, development, and ultimately, broader adoption of hydrogen technologies for mobility.

The road ahead for hydrogen racing

Extreme H may be the beginning, but Cunningham sees the technology advancing rapidly.

“In the next five years, we expect smaller, more cost-effective hydrogen units and more power-dense systems capable of delivering multi-megawatt power,” he explained.

This evolution could make hydrogen not just a niche solution for motorsport but a viable option for mainstream vehicle applications, particularly in heavy-duty transport and long-range vehicles.

For now, Extreme H is providing the blueprint. As each race refines the technology, it takes hydrogen closer and closer to mass adoption.