The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
Find out more about space activities in our 23 Member States, and understand how ESA works together with their national agencies, institutions and organisations.
Exploring our Solar System and unlocking the secrets of the Universe
Go to topicProtecting life and infrastructure on Earth and in orbit
Go to topicUsing space to benefit citizens and meet future challenges on Earth
Go to topicMaking space accessible and developing the technologies for the future
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Altogether four technologies from Europe's space programmes are used in the IdéeVerte car to improve overall its safety. The LPG fuel tank and the exhaust system are insulated with thermal heat wrapping materials developed for the Ariane launcher. They also reduce the risks of gas leaks igniting. The tank itself is made of lightweight titanium developed by space engineers. The driver also has automatic fire extinguishers stemming from Russian rockets. The IdéeVerte ‘green’ racing car running on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) set a new speed record of 315 km/h, 4 November 2004 in Paris. It was constructed to raise public awareness of the potential of sustainable transportation.