Hybrids in 2009 Races - Formula One & Le Mans

2009 Formula One
Beginning with the 2009 season, the Formula One regulations allow for the use of hybrid technology to increase the power & efficiency of the race cars.

The BMW Sauber F1.09 will be equipped with a hybrid system consisting of a combination of electric motor & generator, with power electronics & an energy storage module. Regenerative braking boosts the power in the energy storage module so the electric motor, in combination with the V8 provides extra power.


Le Mans

Peugeot has revealed a hybrid race car for the 2009 Le Mans competition. Approval is pending.
Read more at: AutoBlogGreen 9/2008,



Toyota is reportedly planning re-entering Le Mans racing - this time with hybrids. Read more at: Automobile 4/2008, Left Lane 3/2008,



HYBRIDS AREN'T WIMPY! A Personal Story On a personal note, I was shocked at the tremendous power & speed available when the electric motor & gas engine in our Toyota Hybrid Highlander kicked in together. We wanted better gas mileage in a SUV, but I thought that hybrids were wimpy.

So when we drove our Highlander on an interstate with four adults, two children and all our luggage, I was being careful about being stuck behind a semi on a hill. I just gave a little extra on the accelerator to get around the semi and return to the slow lane. Well, both the electric and gas engines kicked in. Even with four adults, two kids, all our luggage & GOING UPHILL - I was at 95 miles per hour very quickly. I'm glad everyone else was asleep so I wouldn't hear a commentary on my speed burst, but Wow - HYBRIDS AREN'T WIMPY!