The Torq GP, a 600hp single-seater that runs on hemp

Published

6 years ago

August 4, 2020

The Torq GP, a prototype Italian supercar developing 600 hp, could soon be racing on the racetrack. What makes it special? It's made from hemp, and can even be driven with it.

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Under the hood of the Torq is a two-stroke V6 engine capable of delivering almost 600 hp at full throttle, and powered by alternative fuels: hemp distillate, hydrogen or E85, a blend of 85 % ethanol and gasoline.

The car, whose first concept was presented at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, is built at 75% with hemp fiber, used for the body and its components.

«With the Torq, our project aims to exploit innovative technologies that can bring great emotions to the world of racing, which today is often boring.» explains Thomas Bleiner, former Formula 3 driver and Head of Innovation at Excellence Design, the manufacturer of the Torq.

«Engines currently on the market are designed and developed to contain emissions from combustion engines,» he continues. «We're proposing an engine designed for other types of fuel, a two-stroke with very low emissions and high potential. All with the environment in mind.

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In detail, the Torq engine's technological innovation is contained in certain components. «The base is that of a two-stroke, but the head is ceramic and totally oil-free, so it emits no pollutants; special pistons and injectors for varying the type of fuel are designed ad hoc. »

Hemp fiber is used in certain parts of the body to replace metal or carbon. «Hemp fiber works in exactly the same way as carbon fiber, producing a fabric which is then solidified with a specific resin. Thanks to technological innovation, this hemp fiber, which is much lighter than metal, weighs almost as much as carbon.»

The car could compete in championships as early as the 2022 season. In each race, the first 130-kilometer section could be run on hydrogen, thanks in particular to an on-demand hydrogen production system based on water electrolysis. The second part of the race will be run on either E85 or hemp distillate.