Extreme H hydrogen motorsport series begins this weekend

Extreme E was a pioneering all-electric off-road motorsport event which ran from 2021 to 2024 and in 2025, Extreme E is replaced by Extreme H, another pioneering event which is the world’s first hydrogen-powered competition series.

Extreme H, recognised and supported by the FIA, begins with the first round this weekend. Like Extreme E, the inaugural round starts in Saudi Arabia around Qiddiya City. This city is a planned entertainment and tourism megaproject located 40 minutes from Riyadh in the Tuwaiq mountain area.

As an evolution of Extreme E, Extreme H showcases the potential of hydrogen as a clean mobility solution while delivering cutting-edge technology and immersive, purpose-driven racing experiences. The action, dramatic locations and sustainable innovation will be broadcast via various internet channels to a global audience.

Watch Extreme H on

Sukan TV RTM Live

Facebook

YouTube

X (Twitter)

The Extreme H World Cup is not only pioneering in its energy source but also in its format. Like Extreme E, it is the only gender-equal championship in motorsport, with every team required to have a crew composed of one male and one female driver, with equal roles and participation.

In the days prior to the event, the 8 teams completed test runs on the purpose-built Pioneer 25 hydrogen-fuelled off-road vehicle. Evolved from fully electric Odyssey 21 used for Extreme E, the Pioneer 25 has changes to the suspension, balance, and centre of gravity to make it more capable than its predecessor. Active dampers from Fox allow drivers to adjust the car’s behaviour while racing to allow them to push to extreme limits on rough terrain.

“This is the first time ever the race teams have been using the hydrogen racing cars. The FIA Technical Team, Spark, and ourselves continue to work collaboratively to push on and get fast reliable race cars on track to put on the best possible show, as the world is watching,” said Mark Grain, Technical Director, FIA Extreme H World Cup.

“I’m really happy with the car and I really enjoy going out on track in it every time,” said Catie Munnings from Team Hansen who is transiting from Extreme E. “I think the geometry, the suspension, the upgrades they’ve made have made it feel much more like an off-road car that’s capable of hitting bigger ruts and bigger bumps.”

“The suspension’s a big difference, and there’s a lot for us to play with now with the active dampers. It’s really exciting to be a part of that and see how the hydrogen system is also interacting with the motor to charge it while we’re on track,” she added.

“There’s so many more options in terms of the set-up of this car, so it’s quite a lot to try and get your head around in a couple of laps,” said Jameel Motorsport’s Molly Taylor. “All the teams are working hard to try and find what the sweet spot is, because there’s a bit more scope in this car, so potential for a bit more performance. It’s just about how we can all find that as fast as possible.”

The Extreme H World Cup will feature a unique multi-discipline format with drivers and teams taking on 3 contests before an 8-car Final race to crown the World Cup Winner. First up is the Time Trial competition where teams will take to the track individually to set the best combined times. Then there’s a Head-to-Head competition, with teams running parallel down a 532-metre course in one-on-one duels. On the final day, there will be Multi-Car races, followed by an 8-car World Cup Final which will decide the overall Extreme H World Cup Winner.

Apart from the motorsport aspect, Extreme H will also continue the positive legacy in the remote locations that started with Extreme E. Guided by a scientific committee, there will be programs which focus on addressing local environmental and social challenges, and leaving behind something to benefit the local area.

New hydrogen-fuelled off-road competition series in 2025