The Extreme E Racing Series switches to hydrogen

The Extreme H Pioneer 25.

A little less than five years ago, the world was introduced to a new racing series. The name of this series was Extreme E, and it had an impressive history – including the fact that one of its founders had also founded the Formula E circuit. And it had an enticing niche: electric vehicles could compete against each other in dramatic off-road environments – such as in the middle of the desert. But now Extreme E is about to undergo changes, starting with the name. From now on, the series will have a new name – and a new power source.

As Engadget’s Cheyenne Macdonald reported, the revamped racing series is set to hold its first competition in Saudi Arabia in April next year. As part of the announcement, Extreme H also unveiled the vehicle that drivers will compete with in 2025 – the Pioneer 25. The first public test is scheduled to take place at the Hydro X Prix, which will take place on July 13 and 14 on the site of a coal mine in Scotland.

Alejandro Agag, co-founder of the racing series, explained the decision to change priorities. “With the launch of Extreme H, we are not only demonstrating the viability of hydrogen as a fuel source, but also testing the broader hydrogen ecosystem, including charging and hydrogen transportation – and helping to create a market for it,” he wrote. “This is in line with our overarching goal of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and achieving net-zero emissions.”