Aston Martin to field ground breaking hydrogen hybrid car at Nurburgring

The hybrid hydrogen Rapide S will become the first hydrogen powered car to compete in an international event on top of being the first zero emissions sports car to complete a race pace lap at the Nurburgring 24-hour race.

Working in partnership with hydrogen experts Alset Global, Aston Martin's engineers have developed a prototype twin turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine that will power the car. The car can run on pure gasoline, pure gaseous hydrogen, or a blend of both - showcasing the marques commitment to engineering innovation.

By showcasing the technology at the Nurburgring - deemed as one of the toughest and most demanding circuits in the world - Aston Martin will underline the reliability and safety of today's hydrogen technology.

Welcoming the debut of the hybrid hydrogen Rapide S, Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez said, "As we celebrate our centenary in 2013 and look back on a century of excitement, innovation and style it’s also the perfect time to look to the future with this astonishing race car."

Safety is not overlooked with the system incorporating four ultra-high strength carbon fibre tanks holding a total of 3.5kg of hydrogen stored at a pressure of 350bar. Two tanks are housed next to the driver and the other two in the boot of the car. The entire hydrogen system is approved by German motorsport's governing body - DMSB.