MissionH24 Completes Spa Practice Runs, Refueling

Photo: MPS Agency

The ACO’s MissionH24 project took the next step in the development of hydrogen-powered race cars by having successfully competed in official timed sessions for the first time last weekend at Spa-Francorchamps.

Olivier Lombard and Norman Nato turned laps in the LMPH2G during the pair of Free Practice sessions for the Michelin Le Mans Cup round at the Belgian circuit, completing 20 laps alongside LMP3 and GT3 competitors in the European Le Mans Series support event.

The car completed a best lap of 2:33.149, which was just a few seconds shy from the GT3 pace set over the weekend.

In addition to track action, the car made four stops for hydrogen refueling, at the first-ever mobile refueling station designed by Total.

“The objectives for this foray into competition were both simple and complex: immersion in a race environment for the team, finalization of everyone’s roles and of course technical work such as learning the overall set-up of the car, energy management and refueling procedures with Total’s teams,” a statement from the ACO read.

The ACO has outlined plans to introduce a hydrogen-powered class into the 24 Hours of Le Mans by 2024, with last weekend’s run being a “crucial and fundamental step” towards that goal.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John