Extreme E ditches electric for hydrogen – Extreme H motorsport series unveiled for 2025
The electric vehicle off road racing series, Extreme E, have ditched electric vehicles in exchange for hydrogen power in a groundbreaking new era for motorsport.
Extreme E unveiled its pioneering hydrogen racing car, the Pioneer 25, in London.
Developed by the renowned Extreme E electric race series, the reveal took place aboard the St. Helena vessel, with Tower Bridge providing a stunning backdrop as global media and invited guests looked on.
The Extreme H series represents a bold step forward in the transition to clean energy, showcasing cutting-edge hydrogen tech in a competitive racing environment.
The Pioneer 25 is designed to demonstrate the viability and performance capabilities of hydrogen fuel cells, setting a new standard for eco-friendly motorsport.
Founder proud
The Founder and CEO of Extreme H Alejandro Agag said: “We are incredibly proud to introduce the world to the first hydrogen racing car and the Extreme H series.
“This launch is not just about a new vehicle, it’s about pioneering the future of sustainable motorsport.
“Hydrogen fuel cells offer a remarkable opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint and promote clean energy solutions, and we are proud to lead this charge with Extreme H.”
The Pioneer 25 features a 75kW hydrogen fuel cell from Symbio, replacing the battery as the primary energy source.
This advanced technology powers a 400kw (550hp) engine, propelling the 2200 kg race car from 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds.
Rigorous testing
The car has been rigorously tested over the equivalent of three seasons to ensure its readiness for the upcoming championship.
Extreme H will serve as the first-ever test-bed of hydrogen technology in motorsport, influencing areas such as transportation, infrastructure, refuelling processes and safety regulations.
The championship’s first season will feature 10 rounds across five locations, beginning in Saudi Arabia and concluding in the USA.
Technical Director Mark Grain praised the development, saying: “There has been no compromise with the Pioneer 25. Spark Racing Technology and Symbio have done a tremendous job in developing the Extreme H car, which is fit for our exciting new era as a hydrogen-powered championship.”
Partner enthusiasm
Team leaders and partners have expressed their enthusiasm for Extreme H’s innovative approach.
Ferrari F1 driver Carlos Sainz, owner of the ACCIONA race team, highlighted the importance of pioneering sustainable mobility, while Jenson Button – JBXE Extreme E team owner – called the evolution to Extreme H a “brilliant step forward”.
NEOM McLaren Electric Racing’s Ian James emphasised hydrogen’s potential in motorsport, and Jimmie Johnson of Legacy Motor Club noted the technical intrigue of the hydrogen transition.
