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Volkswagen
is launching a one-make Bio-CNG-powered race series in 2010
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Volkswagen
28th October, 2009
Following the successful
debut of the compressed natural gas-powered Scirocco GT24-CNG at the Nürburgring
24-hour race, Volkswagen is launching a one-make Bio-CNG-powered race series in
2010. With a CO2 reduction of 80 per cent being achieved in
combination with Bio-CNG, the Scirocco Cup will demonstrate that major
innovative strides are still being made in motorsport and make it the most
eco-friendly one-make championship in the world.
The Cup version of the
Scirocco is designed to enable eco-friendly motorsport. Based on the
TSI unit fitted in the Scirocco, the Bio-CNG-racing version of the 2.0-litre
four-cylinder engine develops 203 lbs ft of torque and up to 223 PS.
 A push-to-pass system provides a short burst of
increased power of 30 PS to create additional overtaking opportunities and
action throughout the race. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts
operate a six-speed DSG gearbox and, as with the road-going Scirocco R,
power is channelled through the front wheels.
Fitted with a fuel
tank with a capacity of 22-litres, the Volkswagen Scirocco Cup uses
so-called Bio-CNG which is produced from renewable resources such as grass
or a special type of maize as well as from refined biological waste.
The fuel tank itself is made from a composite material and is located behind
the driver’s seat, protected by the vehicle’s roll cage.
The stainless steel
pipes and special valves required for CNG operation within the Scirocco Cup
use tried and tested components from Volkswagen production models with CNG
engines, and the system pressures of 200 Bar are identical to those of the
production vehicles.
Commenting on the new
Scirocco Cup, Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen explained: ‘By
clinching class victory at the Nürburgring we proved that CNG-powered
vehicles not only deliver high fuel economy but also allow very sporty
driving. That’s why we’re particularly proud about launching the world’s
first one-make cup with CNG-powered vehicles.’
Next year, promotion
of young talent will again be a top priority and the aspiring racers
youngsters will be able to compete with five motorsport legends at each of
the races. These legends will come from Formula 1, DTM, rally racing and Le
Mans as well as TV and show business.
Volkswagen first raced the Scirocco back in 1976 in the VW Junior Cup and
the first winner, Manfred Winkelhock, went on to achieve major exploits in
motorsport with Volkswagen. Since then, drivers including Niki Lauda, Nelson
Piquet, Keke Rosberg, Bernd Schneider, Tom Kristensen and Michael Schumacher
have all won the title "powered by Volkswagen”.
The Scirocco Cup will
replace the successful Polo Cup after six years and will become the DTM
partner series in 2010.
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