A biodiesel-powered hydroplane has been successfully tested at a Seattle-area boat race.
Biofuels International reports the Boeing U-787 hydroplane skimmed across the waves… and past non-renewable-powered competitors… in a demonstration proving the green fuel’s versatility this weekend:
The U-787 was tested repeatedly at the annual Chevrolet Cup, each with a greater proportion of biofuel, culminating in the 100% blend being used in a run on Sunday. Hydroplane driver Chip Hanauer reported no drop in performance as the percentage of biofuel was increased.
The tests were conducted under normal operating conditions including rapid acceleration and deceleration and tight cornering.
The feedstock for the biofuel comprised 85% camelina, 14% jatropha and 1% algae. This is a ‘drop-in’ replacement developed by Seattle’s Targeted Growth. This same biofuel mixture helped to power the test flight of a Japan Airlines Boeing 747-300 in January.
You can check out the U-787 in action in this cool video below.