Will Hydrogen Secure the ICE in Motorsport
- Grant Lockhead
- Feb 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 21
Hydrogen engine technology is emerging as a promising alternative to conventional fossil fuel propulsion, especially in motorsport and high-performance sports cars. This technology mainly follows two approaches: hydrogen internal combustion engines (H2-ICEs) and hydrogen fuel cells.
So will Hydrogen Secure the ICE in Motorsport?
At present, we have two choices for H2 power, raising the question of whether hydrogen will ensure the future of ICE in motorsport.
Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines (H2-ICEs)
H2-ICEs function by burning hydrogen in a modified internal combustion engine, similar to petrol or diesel engines. Hydrogen is injected into the combustion chamber, where it mixes with air before ignition. The process generates power by driving the pistons, much like traditional engines. The key advantage is that the only direct emission is water vapour, making it a far cleaner alternative to fossil fuels.
One challenge with H2-ICEs is the potential production of nitrogen oxides (NOx) due to high combustion temperatures. Manufacturers counter this with optimised air-fuel ratios and improved exhaust treatment systems. Another benefit is that H2-ICEs can be adapted from existing engine designs, making the transition to hydrogen-powered vehicles more feasible without requiring an entirely new infrastructure.
Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Unlike H2-ICEs, hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction rather than combustion. Hydrogen reacts with oxygen in a fuel cell, producing electricity that powers electric motors to drive the vehicle. This system emits only water and is highly efficient, making it an attractive clean energy option.
However, fuel cell systems require high-purity hydrogen, advanced cooling mechanisms, and expensive materials such as platinum for the catalyst. Despite these challenges, they are already being used in some high-performance vehicles.
Brands Developing Hydrogen Engines for Motorsport and Sports Cars
Toyota has been leading hydrogen engine development in motorsport. The GR Corolla H2 is a hydrogen-powered race car that has competed in Japan’s Super Taikyu endurance series. It features a 1.6-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine adapted for hydrogen combustion. Toyota continues refining hydrogen combustion technology, improving range, performance, and refuelling times.
Kawasaki has developed a hydrogen-powered motorcycle using a supercharged four-cylinder hydrogen engine. The project is part of the HySE (Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology) collaboration, which aims to explore hydrogen-powered solutions for small vehicles.
Honda has traditionally focused on hydrogen fuel cell technology, as seen in the Clarity Fuel Cell, but is now working on hydrogen combustion engines. The company is developing a 1.6-litre four-cylinder supercharged hydrogen engine for an all-terrain vehicle, the HySE-X1, which is being tested in the 2024 Dakar Rally.
Suzuki has developed a hydrogen-powered version of its Burgman scooter. This showcases the potential of hydrogen for motorcycles and smaller urban vehicles, with ongoing developments in hydrogen engine efficiency.
These manufacturers are actively advancing hydrogen engine technology, demonstrating its potential in motorsport and high-performance vehicles. Hydrogen offers a compelling alternative to battery-electric solutions, with the added benefit of rapid refuelling and a familiar combustion engine feel, making it an exciting area of development for the future of performance driving.
The Upgrade Motorsport Team feel H2-ICE will secure motorsport as we know it, and it's future. Still work to do in the H2 infrastructure and storage, but when we get this solved it will be way better than EV racing.
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