THE FUTURE OF HISTORIC RACING? HOW SYNTHETIC BIOFUELS DELIVERED AT GOODWOOD

Conversations about how we’ll fuel our classics in the future are a regular occurrence at Footman James HQ. We’re often asked about the viable solutions for greener classic motoring – whether through electrification, carbon offsetting or alternative ‘synthetic’ fuels.

But while electrifying classic cars is still a highly divisive topic, synthetic fuels seem a genuinely promising prospect, offering reduced emissions for everyone while maintaining the true mechanical character of your price and joy.

Earlier this year, we reported that FJ ambassador Harry Metcalfe had joined the conversation, asking whether sustainable fuels will be the answer for enthusiasts. Harry put Coryton’s Sustain biofuel to the test using his Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, going head-to-head with modern EV and PHEV vehicles to see which is the kindest to the environment. Watch the video here.

We’re now hearing of another new significant milestone for Coryton Sustain after Jaguar racing specialist CKL Developments used the fuel to compete at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed event. According to FJ partners, the Historic & Classic Vehicle Association (HCVA), the results were overwhelmingly positive.

Using a customer’s Jaguar E-Type, CKL Developments trialled a bespoke specialist synthetic fuel mix which was designed to match the characteristics of conventional high-octane fuel. Using a lead-free valve lubricant and a mix containing no ethanol, the E-Type reportedly ran faultlessly all day and delivered the same performance as conventional racing fuels.

The HCVA has recognised the success as a major step towards net-zero CO2 emissions for the historic and classic sector and says it will support efforts to develop and test the fuels on a range of vehicles, working alongside Coryton and CKL Developments.

Garry Wilson, CEO at HCVA, commented: “We are pleased to support the future of our historic and classic industry through the development of these fuels and are extremely thankful to Coryton and CKL Developments for this first test and also to the customer who allowed the use of his car. The car will feature shortly in a display in Parliament demonstrating the full range of future options available for carbon reduction in the motorsport and historic sectors.”

James Fraser, MD of CKL Developments, said: “The test went well. The car didn’t miss a beat all day. We look forward to developing these fuel technologies further to support the whole classic car sector.”

David Richardson, Director at Coryton, said: “Sustainable fuels can play a huge role in the future of historic and classic cars, and it's fantastic to be starting to put some fuels to the test. We look forward to working with the HCVA and its members including CKL Developments to advance these fuels for the sector."

Do you think synthetic fuels are the solution for greener classic motoring? Let us know in the comments.