Scientists unveil chocolate-fueled race car
May 5, 2009 By MEERA SELVA , Associated Press Writer
This undated photo made available in London Tuesday May 5, 2009, by the University of Warwick, shows a formula 3 racing car - the WorldFirst Formula 3 racing car - which is powered by chocolate, has a steering wheel made out of plant-based fibres derived from carrots, has bodywork made from potatoes, and can still do 125mph. The race car was designed and made from sustainable and renewable materials. The car meets all the Formula 3 racing standards except for its biodiesel engine which is configured to run on fuel derived from waste chocolate and vegetable oil. Pictured with the car are it's creators Dr Kerry Kirwan, Left, Dr Steve Maggs, centre, and Dr James Meredith. (AP Photo, University of Warwick, ho)
(AP) -- Scientists unveiled on Tuesday what they hope will be one of the world's fastest biofuel vehicles, powered by waste from chocolate factories and made partly from plant fibers.
Its makers hope the racer will go 145 mph and give manufacturers ideas about how to build more ecologically friendly vehicles.
The car runs on vegetable oils and chocolate waste that has been turned into biofuel. The steering wheel is made out of plant-based fibers derived from carrots and other root vegetables, and the seat is built of flax fibre and soybean oil foam. The body is also made of plant fibers.
Scientists at the University of Warwick say their car is the fastest to run on biofuels and also be made from biodegradable materials. It has been built to Formula 3 specifications about the car's size, weight, and performance.
Their claims cannot be independently verified.
They hope it can reach speeds of over 145 mph when it is tested on a racetrack in a few weeks time. They have driven it at around 60 mph and are now making final adjustments to the engine before driving it at top speed.
Warwick's project manager James Meredith said their model shows that it is possible to build a fast, efficient, environmentally friendly car.
The car, named the "WorldFirst Formula 3 racing car," will go on display at several races including the European Grand Prix and Britain's Goodwood Festival of Speed.
©2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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Lord_jag - May 06, 2009
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Great! Just what we need to make chocolate more expensive!- report abuse
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denijane - May 07, 2009
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This is not a car, it's a cake :) But if we must be serious, I think this is a good example of what can be done with the tons of organic waste every city produces. I hope it works well...- report abuse
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Ookami - Jun 02, 2009
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science in the news- report abuse
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