Prince Albert II has kicked off the 2024 Monaco Hydrogen Alliance Forum by combining two of his greatest passions: cars and clean energy. To signal the launch of the event, the Prince got behind the wheel of Extreme H’s prototype hydrogen-powered race car, the Pioneer 25, taking the innovative vehicle on a drive from the Palais Princier to the doors of the event.
The Monaco Hydrogen Alliance is a local association that brings together industry leaders and policymakers with the goal of encouraging the global adoption of hydrogen power. This pioneering organisation also spearheads the Monaco Hydrogen Forum, now in its third year, an event that promotes the use of hydrogen as a more sustainable alternative to traditional fuels in land, air and maritime transportation.
The 2024 event, which is taking place between 2nd and 3rd December at the Hotel Hermitage, is showcasing a range of new technologies and developments in the sector, including one of the latest innovations in hydrogen-powered transport: the Pioneer 25 race car from Extreme H.
“Hydrogen represents an important pathway to a sustainable future, offering solutions to reduce emissions across multiple sectors,” said Prince Albert in his opening address at the event. “It was my pleasure to be one of the first to try out this remarkable race car, here in Monaco, a country that is proud to host the most iconic racing across Formula 1 and Formula E. As Extreme H showcases, innovation in motorsport can be a driving force for global progress, inspiring action far beyond the racetrack.”
The Pioneer 25, designed by Spark Racing Technology and powered by a Symbio 75kW hydrogen fuel cell, is an incredible example of cutting-edge, zero-emissions technology. The hydrogen fuel cell, which has been rigorously tested, powers a battery pack produced by Fortescue ZERO. With a peak output of 550hp, the car can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in an astounding 4.5 seconds, highlighting hydrogen’s potential to redefine high-performance mobility.
Extreme H, the world’s first hydrogen-powered motorsport championship, will debut in 2025, building on the success of its electric predecessor, Extreme E.
Extreme E, the off-road electric SUV racing series that competes “in the most remote corners of the planet impacted by climate change,” is evolving into Extreme H, swapping electric cars for hydrogen fuel cell-powered cars. Extreme H’s official launch took place on June 27, 2024 in London.
Alejandro Agag, the founder and CEO of Extreme H, has recognised the significance of Prince Albert’s participation, saying, “Prince Albert II’s leadership in environmental causes inspires us all. His support for Extreme H reinforces the message that hydrogen innovation can unlock solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.”
The Prince’s symbolic drive highlights hydrogen’s transformative potential and Monaco’s position as a global centre for clean energy innovation.
To find out more about the Monaco Hydrogen Alliance and the Forum, click here.
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Main photo credit: Axel Bastello / Michael Alesi / Palais Princier de Monaco
