Bridgestone Eco-Rally F1 drivers announced

Press release: 

07.06.10 - Bridgestone Eco-Rally F1 drivers announced

Formula One (F1) fans will have the chance to see, in person, some of the sport’s biggest names, including Ross Brawn, Patrick Head and Nico Hulkenberg, with more names to be announced, as they take part in the 2010 Bridgestone Eco-Rally this summer.

Now in its fourth year, the event is set to be bigger than ever as stars from the world of F1 lend their support courtesy of Bridgestone, the sole tyre supplier to F1, who will be adding some track-side glamour to the day.

The Bridgestone Eco-Rally takes place on Wednesday 7th July and will showcase all the latest in low and zero emission vehicle technology in a convoy from Brighton’s seafront to London’s Hyde Park. At the finish line, it will join the UK’s largest sustainable transport exhibition, free to attend, at the Royal Albert Memorial.

Over the years, the event has attracted support from many high-profile celebrities, as well as some of the most important names in the motoring industry entering their revolutionary vehicles into the Eco-Rally and exhibition. Major manufacturers are supporting this year’s event including Lotus, Tesla, TH!NK, MINI and Honda, who will be showcasing their new CR-Z - the world’s first sporty hybrid.

More unusual entrants include a seven-litre Corvette Z06, entered by a motor-racing journalist out to prove that, with careful driving techniques, even a 530bhp American supercar can be fuel-efficient. The Ford Fusion world record-breaking hybrid will also be on display, representing Ford's electrification plans for Europe.

TV motoring journalist, Quentin Willson, who has driven in the last three Eco-Rallies, said:

“Having Bridgestone and F1 drivers on board this year proves that sustainable motoring really has hit the mainstream. The cars we drive and how they're powered will never be the same again.

“For motorists who want cheaper fuel and energy choices this is only event in the world that showcases just how clever, usable and desirable green cars have become. I'm proud to be celebrating how the massive technological ingenuity of F1 and the global motor industry has made cars the cleanest and most efficient they've ever been.”

Zac Goldsmith MP, who helped launch the Eco-Rally in 2007, said:

“Sustainable transport is one of the most pertinent issues we face. We can become world leaders in this field, and if we really take advantage of the opportunities, we will benefit economically, environmentally and socially. I applaud the aims of the Eco-Rally and am proud to have been there at the start.”

The event is also raising funds to build the Royal Parks Foundation's Look Out Education Centre.