The American Le Mans Series has been working for five years to make racing greener. The ALMS announced that Baltimore would be a new racing venue, and it aimed to be the “most sustainable” race in the U.S.
Baltimore has been talking about having a Grand Prix for years now, and those dreams seem to have finally come to fruition. I’ve covered the work ALMS has done before, from engine oil made mostly from cows to biobutonal-powered race cars to diesels and even flywheel hybrids. It is one of my favorite racing series, combining high-octane action with an air of sustainability and an eye towards efficiency.
American Le Mans holds races in some of the premier venues in the U.S., from Sebring to Lime Rock, and they are adding Baltimore to that list. Baltimore and the ALMS have signed a five-year contract to bring races within the city limits, through the heart of downtown, and the race aims to be the most sustainable race in the U.S. These improvements aren’t just for the benefit of the racing series, as many of the initiatives will have long-lasting effects.
For example, solar panels will be placed on the convention center roof, and LED lights will replace incandescent bulbs on street lights. Charging stations will be added to city streets, hybrid vehicles will transport fans to and from the race track, and an interesting take on parking that will see individuals organized by zip code. While racetracks across the country are already exploring and applying green initiatives, the Baltimore Grand Prix aims to be the greenest of the green.
Sounds like they’re off to a good start, and with the ever-expanding lineup of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles duking it out on the streets of Baltimore, there’s sure to be something there for the racing fan in all of us. Are you excited as I am to see racing getting even greener? Any Baltimore locals want to chime in?
Source: American Le Mans Series
Chris DeMorro is a writer and gearhead who loves all things automotive, from hybrids to Hemis. You can follow his slow descent into madness at Sublime Burnout.