Shell reveals biofuels Formula One fuel

A new fuel supplied to Scuderia Ferrari contains a biofuels component that comes from straw, Royal Dutch Shell has revealed.

According to the natural resources giant, the advanced energy source is derived from cellulosic ethanol and it will mark the first time a biofuel of this type has been used by Ferrari.

Dr Lisa Lilley, Shell’s technology manager for the motor car team, said she is "delighted" with the news.

"This announcement clearly demonstrates our commitment to the development of sustainable, low-carbon fuels," she stated.

Shell continues to rapidly advance biofuels technology and the firm is dedicated to innovations in the sector through its motoring activities, Dr Lilley added.

Cellulosic ethanol is an end fuel that is "identical to ethanol", but can lead to 90 per cent reductions in CO2 emissions, when compared with ordinary petrol, the organisation explained.

Earlier this year, Shell announced it intends to form a joint venture with ethanol producer Cosan to develop links for the manufacture and supply of transportation fuels.