Scientists Build Chocolate Fuelled Race Car

With the rise of environmentalism and the doubts emerging over the long term viability of motor sport, race engineers have been forced to explore technologies that will extend its relevance in a changing global landscape.

The use of biofuels and recyclable composites are considered key to this, but a team of British scientists may have found the most unlikely of solutions.

Introducing the world’s first chocolate powered car: a Formula Three racer boasting an impressive set of green credentials.

Built by World First Racing, the car runs on biofuel derived from chocolate waste and vegetable oils and has an expected top speed of 230km/h, while it can race from 0-100 in under four seconds.

The car reportedly meets F3 specifications, although current rules mandated by the governing body prohibit cars running on biofuel from competing.

However, the nature of its fuel isn't the only aspect of the car that is completely unique; there are other elements making it attractive to people without a sweet tooth.

Inside the cockpit, the polymer used to make the steering wheel is derived from carrots and other root vegetables, while the seat contains foam created from soy bean oil and recycled polyester fabric.

Outside, the wing mirrors are forged from a potato starch core, as is the front end wing plate, while the side pod is made of glass fibre and resin from recycled bottles.

Its brake pads contain ground cashew nut shells and the radiator is “coated with a catalyst which converts ozone to oxygen” .

Project member Ben Wood told Sky News UK the car highlights the potential for motor racing to be a green sport.

“People love motor racing, and the trick is to do it in a more environmentally responsible manner,” he said.

“Anything with a fat in it can be turned into diesel, and that's what we've managed to do with chocolate."