Space technology for 'green' racing cars

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.