The year 2030 is not as far away as the automotive industry would like to rush the release of new engines that are propelled by a fuel that is more respectful of the planet and can replace fossil fuels. Although the electric car has all the guarantees to be installed, other sustainable alternatives appear as this fuel elaborated from the industry of one of the most consumed drinks in Spain.
The fuel of the future originates from the production of a drink that is served in glasses.
From the waste of a thriving industry in Europa and America, a French company has developed a biofuel that achieves the same effectiveness as conventional diesel, but with the advantage of being 100% sustainable, which gives it a higher degree of relevance.
Excellium Racing 100 is a biofuel originating from French wine production waste, launched by the company TotalEnergies and has made its successful presentation at the World Endurance races, the 24h of Le Mans.
With the aim of developing new hydrocarbon solutions for mobility and reducing carbon emissions, the new fuel tests its efficiency on the racetracks before going on to conquer the field of commercial vehicles.
Wine waste is the raw material of this new biofuel
France’s wine industry is the second largest in the world behind only Italy, with an annual production of 4.69 billion liters. Just as its beverage is the most appreciated by the most demanding wine tasters, its wastes now play an important role in the elaboration of this new energy source.
So far, we have heard of the creation of biofuels that are already on the market from the cultivation of oilseeds, sugar cane or corn. This innovation explores the use of grape must, skins and pips that are discarded in winemaking.
From a formula composed of wine waste, the synthesis of its oil and the combination of ethanol, all elements coming from biomass, a reaction is produced that constitutes the raw material of this fuel that has the same properties as a fossil fuel, which it surpasses in sustainable terms.
Advantages of this biofuel from wine production
According to the company TotalEnergies, Excellium Racing 100 reduces greenhouse gas emissions from track vehicles by at least 65%, certified by European Union bodies.
The ability to be carbon neutral suggests that the vehicle’s emissions from burning fuel while operating on the track are negligible and offset by zero emissions during the fuel manufacturing process.
In addition, the structural properties of the synthetic fuel can effectively replace fossil fuels without the need for any technical modification to the vehicle, providing the same conditions of density, lubricity, viscosity and oxidation stability as a conventional fuel.
The real availability of biofuels in America
Many energy companies are developing different types of biofuels as healthier alternatives for the environment. In America, the company Repsol markets its biofuel at a price 10 to 20% higher than that of fossil fuels.
Thus, starting to use grape waste to produce its own fuel would be an alternative source of income for the country, and a more sustainable response to climate change to supply domestic mobility. We will soon see the results, as well as this efficient alternative.