BMF supports clean emissions TT

The world’s first Clean Emissions Grand Prix race, the TTxGP, to be held in 2009 and run over the legendary Isle of Man TT circuit, has gained the BMF’s full involvement and support.

Normally concerning itself with the road riding aspects of motorcycling, the British Motorcyclists Federation is therefore fully aware of the environmental impact of traditionally fuelled vehicles and while constantly stressing the environmental benefits of wider motorcycle and scooter use, it nevertheless sees cleaner propulsion methods as essential in promoting wider use of the motorcycle or scooter.

Commenting, the BMF’s Government Relations Executive Chris Hodder, said: “The BMF’s aim is to promote, protect and safeguard the future interests of motorcyclists and we all know that racing improves the breed, so we think events like the TTxGP will stimulate and provide an exciting test-bed for clean-technologies that could enter the mainstream market. This is why the BMF is proud to be involved in the TTxGP, a venture that could lead to motorcyclists continuing to enjoy riding without the associated environmental concerns and without dependency on limited fuel supplies. We can’t think of a better venue than the historic Isle of Man TT circuit for this world-first spectacle that will introduce the future to the riders of today.”

In many parts of the world, zero-emissions areas are already being proposed say the BMF so the future is clear - clean is the way to go. Major manufacturers too are working on fuel-cell and electric motorcycles and the BMF looks forward to seeing their prototypes entered in the TTxGP.

Developing cleaner technologies will also mainstream motorcycles environmentally making it easier to make the case for equal treatment under the UK’s road tax regime making electric motorcycles and scooters exempt, as are electric cars.

The planned TTxGP will showcase a diverse range of vehicles capable of reaching Grand Prix race speeds. Racing teams are likely to be backed by international corporations, universities and high tech institutions, all eager to prove their credentials in the brave new world of clean emission transportation.

TTxGP founder, Azhar Hussain said: "The TTxGP is gathering momentum globally and winning the support of both racing enthusiasts and those concerned with the environment. We are delighted to have the support of the BMF, not least for its respected influence amongst motor cyclists but also because it shares our vision of creating an event that begins a new chapter in motor racing history.”

Simon Maddison, Technical Director of TTxGP and Fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology, said: “The TTxGP is an enormously exciting prospect from an engineering perspective. It comes at a time when we are reaching a tipping point in the search for and acceptance of alternative energy sources. The TTxGP provides a fantastic way of promoting and popularising these new technologies, serving to inspire young engineering professionals to turn their skills to tackling the pressing energy issues of the modern world.”


See http://www.ttxgp.com for more.


ENDS


Issued by Jeff Stone: t: +44 (0)121 709 1040 f: +44 (0)121 705 8784 e: jeff.stone@bmf.co.uk

Details on this and other BMF activities can also be found on our web site: http://www.bmf.co.uk