Racing fans attending the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans will be able to admire three hydrogen-powered vehicles belonging to the pioneering MissionH24 programme at the circuit this week. The programme, a joint venture between the ACO and GreenGT is working towards introducing a hydrogen class at the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans, to popularise hydrogen as a clean, zero-carbon alternative to fossil fuels, for racing and on the road.
MissionH24 sets up camp in Le Mans on Monday, ready to take part in the fantastic centenary celebrations. Having clocked up 100 years’ experience, race organiser the ACO is not daunted by the prospect of reinventing the future of motoring, with climate change a major influence.
From Tuesday onwards, the three MissionH24 vehicles – two prototypes and a show car – will be on display at the circuit. Project partners Total Energies and Michelin will be hosting one each, and the third will be the focal point of the MissionH24 stand in the H2 Village. This year, a whole village is devoted to hydrogen, proving that MissionH24’s research and development has already been successful in convincing manufacturers to commit to a programme based on the energy. The Village officially opens at 16:00 on Wednesday 7 June.
Displays are great, but cars are meant to be driven. On Saturday, both racing prototypes will take to the track. At 12:23 the LMPH2G will offer a lucky passenger the chance to sample zero-carbon mobility first hand. Who is the mystery passenger? Watch this space for the announcement!
As for the programme’s latest prototype, the H24 will be taking a lap of honour at 15:42 in the run-up to the start of the race of the century!