Matriculation Number s2543442
TECHNICAL REPORT – ENG2 (SEM2) [2024/25]
A study on the effects of a full transition from combustion engines to those powered by renewable
products and electric vehicles in f1 logistics
Matriculation Number: s2543442
Executive Summary:
This report is conducted on behalf of
the formula one group and formula
one management, to examine the
potential benefits of incorporating
sustainable energy and electric
vehicles (EVs) into the logistics
operations of F1 (FORMULA 1).
The pinnacle of motorsport, known
for its high energy consumption and
global logistic needs, has
opportunities to reduce its
environmental impact in numerous ways, while maintaining performance and
efficiency.
Figure 1
The adoption of sustainable energy sources such as solar, wind, and bioenergy can reduce the
carbon footprint of F1 logistics operations - by utilizing renewable energy to power facilities,
transport vehicles, and event operations, F1 can minimize its long-lasting reliance on fossil
fuels in order to massively contribute to sustainability goals shared by other industries to
resolve the global crisis of climate change. In addition, transitioning to electric vehicles for
transportation needs can lower emissions, reduce operational costs, which aid in the use of
funds for other tasks, and enhances F1's image as one of the leaders in engineering innovation
and environmental sustenance.
The report highlights the following as potential merits:
1. Reduction in environmental impact: Electric vehicles, which are powered by
lithium-ion batteries, ensure 0% emissions produced from its tailpipe, as well as,
renewable energy solutions which could greatly cut carbon emissions from logistic
operations.
2. Cost Savings: Whilst initial investments in electric vehicles for transport and
renewable energy infrastructure like wind turbines, solar panels, may be high, longterm savings in fuel and maintenance costs can outweigh these expenses. EVs have
lower operating costs due to their efficiency and fewer moving parts.
3. Enhanced Brand Image: By adopting sustainable practices, F1 has the opportunity
to align itself with the ever-growing demand for eco-friendly solutions, which
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inevitably attract more sponsors, fans, as well as corporates who seek to prioritize
sustainability.
4. Technological Innovation: F1, an environment for engineering marvels and
innovation, can serve as a test bench for advanced EV technologies, driving
innovation in the automotive industry and contributing to the development of highperformance electric transport solutions.
Despite some obstacles, such as high upfront costs and the need for expanded charging
stations and infrastructure, the transition to sustainable energy and electric vehicles in F1
logistics offers a transparent path toward reducing the sport's environmental footprint while
maintaining its competitive edge. It also allows for the opportunity to expand its reach across
more continents around the globe. It is recommended that formula one management, as well
as teams, pilot these technologies and collaborate with industry partners to overcome these
hurdles and lead the way in sustainable motorsport practices.
Summary Recommendations.

Evaluate the environmental and financial benefits of using sustainable energy and
electric vehicles in F1 logistics.

Identify challenges and barriers to the adoption of these technologies.

Provide recommendations on how F1 teams and stakeholders can transition to more
sustainable logistics practices.
1.0 Introduction.
This report dives deeper, into the merits of sustainable energy sources and electric vehicles
(EVs) incorporation, into FORMULA 1 and especially, its logistics. Infamously associated
with high levels of energy usage, and significant carbon emissions, an extensive study into
F1’s environmental impact revealed the championship was responsible for generating
256,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions during the 2019 season1. In view of this, formula one
management has set a clear target to achieve net 0 emissions by 2030 with increasing drives
towards sustainability in the automotive industry, this report evaluates the feasibility of F1
leveraging renewable energy and EVs to reduce its environmental carbon footprint. I will
discuss the potential for cost savings, environmental impact reduction, and innovation in
logistics practices through the acquisition of sustainable energy solutions and electric
vehicles.
2.0 Review.
Formula 1, widely recognized for its speed and precision, is also known for its significant
environmental footprint, particularly in terms of logistics. The transportation of teams,
equipment, and vehicles across global race venues requires large amounts of energy, often
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sourced from non-renewable fossil fuels like gasoline which power trucks, and jet-A fuel for
aircrafts. The rising awareness of climate change and the growing importance of
sustainability in motorsport have prompted a shift towards greener solutions.
1. Energy-efficient power units: F1 has already made
strides in hybrid engine technology, which utilizes both the internal combustion
engine known as the ICE, as well as electric motors. The combination of the ICE and
electric motor components comprised of the
MGU-H and MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit Heat and Kinetic respectively) help balance
performance with energy recovery. The MGUK converts kinetic energy (from braking) into
electrical energy, which is stored in the ERS or
Energy Recovery System. The MGU-H helps
manage energy from the turbocharger,
improving overall engine efficiency and
reducing losses, this energy, can be sent back
to the ICE to reduce turbo lag and maintain
Figure 2
power. As illustrated by figure 2.
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Renewable energy for logistics: Using solar and wind power for transportation and
logistics operations would help minimize emissions from fuel-based vehicles used to
move equipment, teams, and cars between races. Transporting teams, racing gear and
equipment, across double headers, could all be accomplished with electric vehicles.
For longer trips, where EVs might not be feasible due to range limitations, hybrid
vehicles which use both electric power and low-emission internal combustion engines
could be used.
2. Reduce Carbon Emissions in Race Car Manufacturing.
Sustainable materials: F1 teams can reduce the environmental impact of car
manufacturing by using sustainable materials in car components. This includes
recycled metals, bio-based composites, and carbon-neutral plastics, which may also
offer benefits performance wise – offering good structural integrity at a decent weight
cost. McLaren Racing's FORMULA 1 team were reported to run one of their first test,
entailing the use of advanced recycled carbon fibre, or ‘rCF’ on their MCL60 car
during last year’s US Grand Prix. This initiative is part of the team’s broader goal to
create a fully circular F1 car by 2030. The trial will help McLaren explore and
evaluate innovative materials and technologies as they work towards achieving their
net-zero emissions target. With hopes to achieve a 90% reduction in life cycle
emissions compared to standard carbon fibre, equal to 27 tonnes of carbon emissions
for each tonne of material used. If just 1% of the carbon fibre manufactured globally
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in 2022 was rCF, it would save 32,535 tonnes of carbon emissions – equivalent to half
of McLaren Racing’s total emissions in 2022.2
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Circular economy: Implementing a circular economy approach, a system where
resources are continuously reused and regenerated, to ensure, materials never become
waste. A sustainable alternative to
the traditional make and dispose
model, it focuses on processes like
repairing, reusing, refurbishing,
remanufacturing, recycling, and
composting to keep products and
materials in constant circulation.
This approach helps to reduce overreliance for finite resources,
minimizes waste, and addresses
Figure 3
major global issues like climate
change, pollution, and biodiversity
loss. By prioritizing the reuse of materials and reducing waste, a circular economy
aims to create a more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly system for
economic growth.
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Fuel innovation: The use of biofuels and synthetic fuels is being explored as a way to
reduce the carbon footprint of race cars. Fuel cells could be developed and
incorporated into race cars to generate electrical power through a chemical reaction
between a fuel and an oxidant, without burning the fuel. A good example, is hydrogen
fuel cell, in which the hydrogen gas reacts with oxygen from the air to produce
electricity, water, and heat. This process happens in a controlled environment and is
more efficient and cleaner than combustion, as it does not release harmful emissions
like carbon dioxide.
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3. Reduce Waste at Races
Zero-waste events: F1 events could aim to
reduce waste through recycling programs,
the elimination of single-use plastics, and
encouraging the use of reusable materials in
Figure 4
race infrastructure and fan activities. F1 has implemented
several sustainability initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. It is reported by
formula 1, that members of the paddock, have been given reusable water bottles to
help cut down on plastic waste at offices and race venues. Additionally, pertinent
personnel are working with its supply chain to increase the use of recycled materials.
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For example, in 2020, all F1 staff polo shirts and accreditation lanyards were made
from recycled plastic bottles.3
Sustainable event management: The entirety of a race venue, could be optimized for
sustainability - from the design of the race circuit to the materials used in fan areas
and corporate hospitality suites. This could include using locally sourced materials
and reducing energy consumption in race-related activities. In collaboration with
Crisis UK, F1 also donated 900 staff uniforms to support homeless people in 2020.
Furthermore, several race circuits have partnered with local food banks and charities
to minimize food waste. Following the cancelled 2020 Australian Grand Prix, over 1.5
tonnes of unused food were donated to 17 Victorian charities.4
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4. Collaboration with Sustainability Partners
Industry partnerships: F1 can partner with companies and organizations that
specialize in clean technologies and environmental sustainability. This can lead to
new innovations in sustainable racing practices, materials, and energy solutions. As
global environmental concerns continue to grow, the public and sponsors are
increasingly prioritizing sustainability. F1's move towards green logistics would
enhance its image as an environmentally responsible sport.
Innovation hubs: By collaborating with tech companies and environmental
organizations, F1 could become a leader in the development of green technologies,
which can then be transferred to other industries. Partnerships with electric vehicle
manufacturers would strengthen the relationship between F1 and the automotive
industry, fostering the development of high-performance, energy-efficient transport
solutions.
5. Fan and Public Engagement
Promote sustainability awareness: F1 can use its global platform to raise awareness
about sustainability by engaging fans and encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly
practices. This could include initiatives like promoting sustainable transportation to
races (e.g., using public transit, carpooling, or biking to the venue). F1 has a massive
audience all around the world, to wherever they go, and these race weekends held,
could be a valuable opportunity to enlighten others on the benefits of environmental
impact and discuss ways to reduce our carbon footprint.
Sustainable fan experiences: Race venues can provide fans with sustainable options
such as electric vehicle charging stations, waste recycling programs, and eco-friendly
merchandise to familiarise them with such lifestyles during practice sessions,
highlighting the benefits to adopt such technologies in their lives.
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Challenges and Barriers:
While the merits of adopting fully electric vehicles and other forms of renewable energy,
there are several challenges which must be laid out. Some of which are stated below.
- Balancing Power and Efficiency: F1 is a sport which entices those passionate for speed,
and so it is built around cornering performance and aero efficiency achieved through
automotive cutting-edge technology. The challenge is integrating sustainability into this highperformance environment whilst ensuring 0 compromise for the excitement of the sport sustaining a balance between raw power from engines and hybrid technologies, while
reducing carbon footprints, proves difficult to accomplish especially given the fact a lot of
fans do call for the state of ICEs to return to a v8 or 10 configurations, with 0 reliance on
electric power.
- Efficiency of fuel against Power generation and use: Even though hybrid systems like
MGU-K and MGU-H improve the use of fuel, F1 cars are designed to operate at the
maximum output. The need to ensure high performance and the desire to reduce fuel
consumption sometimes conflict, requiring constant innovation in engine efficiency and
recovery systems.
- Varying Regulations Across Countries: F1 races take place in many countries with
different environmental laws and regulations. This can complicate efforts to implement a
uniform strategy for sustainability across the entire sport. For example, some countries may
have more stringent emissions laws, while others may be slower to adopt green technologies.
- Pressure from
Environmental Groups: As
awareness of climate change
grows, F1 may face
increased pressure from
environmental groups to
reduce its carbon footprint
more rapidly. Balancing this
pressure with the realities of
maintaining highperformance standards can
be difficult.
3.0 SWOT Analysis
STRENGTHS
WEAKNESSES
*As F1 has already made significant progress in hybrid
technology, particularly with the integration of the Motor
Generator Unit - Kinetic (MGU-K) and Motor Generator
Unit - Heat (MGU-H). This innovation in energy
recovery is at the forefront of automotive engineering
thus, research and development in such a topic would
not be foreign.
*Although research and development is currently ongoing
on biofuels and synthetic fuels, these alternatives to the
current are still in the intermediate stages of
development, thus not yet scalable enough for widespread
use. Producing sustainable fuels on a large enough scale
to support global motorsport while remaining
economically viable is a significant obstacle.
* F1 events produce a substantial amount of waste, from
*The FIA (Formula 1’s governing body) has set a target
for the sport to be carbon neutral by 2030, producing net
0 emissions. This suggests the likelihood of a transition
has been taken into consideration by the higher-ups.
Such an ambitious goal demonstrates F1’s commitment
to reducing its environmental footprint and encouraging
the full deployment of sustainable practices both on and
off the track.
THREATS
OPPORTUNITIES
* F1 as the pinnacle of motorsport, can add to its
prestigious history, as a pioneer in the development and
use of biofuels, synthetic fuels, and e-fuels. By
advancing and investing in these technologies, F1 can
significantly reduce its carbon emissions while still
using internal combustion engines in a more sustainable
way. Such technology which would be a remarkable
accomplishment if successful. Knowhow may also be
sought from technical heads at automobile companies to
replicate such technology, and adapt to their
manufactured equipment.
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F1 fanatics have a deep-rooted appreciation for the
traditional aspects of the sport, including the highperformance, gasoline run engines that are synonymous
with speed and sound. A full transition sustainable energy
might alienate some fans who prefer the spectacle made
from the roar of the engines - thrill of high-speed racing
and the sound of powerful engines have long been key
components of F1’s identity. A shift toward fully electric
or sustainable alternatives might pose a risk to diluting
the excitement and appeal of the sport to some audiences.
*
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
4.0 Conclusion and Recommendations:
The adoption of sustainable energy and electric vehicles in F1 logistics offers significant
benefits, including reduced carbon emissions, cost savings, and improved brand image. While
there are challenges to overcome, particularly around infrastructure and initial investment, the
long-term advantages of these technologies make them a viable solution for F1 teams looking
to align with global sustainability goals.
Recommendations:

Pilot Programs: F1 teams should implement pilot programs to test the viability of
EVs in logistics operations and identify the best sustainable energy solutions.

Collaboration with EV Manufacturers: F1 teams should partner with electric
vehicle manufacturers to develop custom logistic vehicles suited to the unique
demands of the sport.

Infrastructure Development: Investment in charging infrastructure is essential for
the widespread adoption of electric vehicles in F1 logistics.
By taking these steps, Formula 1 can significantly reduce its environmental footprint and
serve as a leader in promoting sustainable practices within the motorsport industry.
References and external web links:
Figure 1 – https://corp.formula1.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Formula-1-2023-ImpactReport.pdf
Figure 2 – https://global.honda/en/tech/motorsports/Formula-1/Powertrain_V6_power_unit/
Figure 3 – https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/topics/circular-economyintroduction/overview
Figure 4 – https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0375/10/5/99
1 - https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/net-zero-carbon-how-formula-1-is-going-tomeet-this-ambitious-target-by-2030.5QsK9NpYbz7pXp7423I3iJ
2 - https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/mclaren-racing-pioneers-use-ofsustainable-materials-with-innovative-recycled-carbon-fibre-trial/
3 - https://corp.formula1.com/positive-race-print/
4 - https://corp.formula1.com/positive-race-print/
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