Forze to set lap record at the Nürburgring

Comprised of students from TU Delft, the team has been developing zero emission, hydrogen fuel cell racecars since 2007, in cooperation with De Haagse Hogeschool, Rotterdam Business School and Leiden University. Their latest vehicle, the Forze VI, is designed to compete against petrol-powered racecars on the national circuit.

With a top speed of 210kph, the 860kg Forze VI can accelerate from zero to 100kph in less than four seconds. Its efficient fuel cell system converts hydrogen into electric energy, which then powers the racecar’s battery with 100kW (135horsepower). Unlike their electric-powered counterparts, hydrogen-powered vehicles can be fueled in minutes, emitting only pure water as their exhaust.

“The Forze VI, is a step further for the team,” says Forze Team Manager Ruïz Knöbel. “In the past five years, the Forze team developed three hydrogen-powered go-karts and two hydrogen-powered Formula Student cars. The Forze VI is the first student built, full-size hydrogen racecar in the world and has a power output that is more than the combined power of the previous five cars. This makes the Forze VI unique and it’s something that TU Delft can be proud of.”

Unveiled in the summer of 2013, the Forze VI is now being calibrated to break speed records made by hydrogen fuel cell cars. “We are building the Forze VI to set the lap record on the Nürburgring Nordschleife,” Knöbel claims. “Now we are iterating the current systems in the car to make it more reliable in order to set the lap record in April 2015. Forze is established to promote sustainable energy technology through racing. Setting the lap record on the Nürburgring Nordschleife will generate publicity that helps us to promote the hydrogen technology. Also, through this challenge, Forze should grow into a more professional race team.”

All in all, working on the Forze VI is seen a valuable opportunity for students to gain practical experience. “Being part of a dream team is an added value to your study program,” Knöbel says. “As a member of Forze, you get experience in working with multidisciplinary teams, fixed deadlines and responsibilities. And I shouldn’t forget to mention that it’s also a lot of fun.”