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Volkswagen to Enter CNG Scirocco GT24 in Nurburgring 24h Race

18 April, 2009 05:14:00

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For this year's Nurburgring 24-hour race in Germany on May 23-24, Volkswagen will feature two compressed-natural-gas-powered Scirocco GT24-CNG racing cars.

The two Scirocco GT24-CNG 2.0-liter turbo engines powered by natural gas deliver nearly 300 hp. In addition, the “factory” team will field three further Scirocco GT24 cars powered by 2.0-liter turbo petrol engines in the classic endurance race at the “Green Hell” in the Eifel region in Western Germany.

Last year, Volkswagen clinched a one-two victory in the 2.0-liter turbo class even before the Scirocco’s market launch.

This year, the turbocharged 320-hp 2.0L four-cylinder has been reworked to run on compressed-natural-gas and pounds out nearly 300 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque through Volkswagen's DSG dual-clutch gearbox. Because natural gas is very resistant to knocking, Volkswagen says its CNG engine will operate like a gasoline engine running 130 octane racing fuel, all while producing fewer emissions.

"The 24-Hour Race offers Volkswagen an exciting stage to demonstrate its technical capabilities and expertise," says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "The Scirocco GT24 already proved its strengths as a dynamic sports coupe by clinching class victory in its debut race last year. In 2009, we are taking yet another step forwards by using two different engine concepts. We want to prove that Volkswagen offers different powertrain concepts, all of which excel in terms of high efficiency, dynamics and reliability. The Nordschleife and the 24-Hour Race provide an ideal test bed for this purpose."

In addition to tests, Volkswagen’s preparation for the 24-hour Nurburgring includes three races in the BFGoodrich Endurance Championship Nürburgring. The Scirocco GT24-CNG will make its debut on 18 April at the Four-Hour Race on the “ring”.

On average, natural gas vehicles reduce CO2 emissions by 25 per cent compared with conventional spark ignition engines. The combustion process generates almost no particulate matter or fine dust.

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