Extreme H’s Pioneer 25 was sampled by a rather unexpected driver on Monday when H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco got behind the wheel of the hydrogen-powered race car.
The Sovereign Prince sampled the car on the streets of Monaco, driving from the Prince’s Palace to Hotel Hermitage. The purpose of the demonstration was the showcase the car – which will run in the world’s first hydrogen powered race competition next year – ahead of the annual Monaco Hydrogen Alliance Forum, which took place at the Prince’s destination, and was opened by him afterwards.
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“Hydrogen represents an important pathway to a sustainable future, offering solutions to reduce emissions across multiple sectors,” Prince Albert II said. “It was my pleasure to be one of the first to try out this remarkable race car, here in Monaco, a country which is proud to host the most iconic racing across Formula 1 and Formula E.
“As Extreme H showcases, innovation in motorsport can be a driving force for global progress, inspiring action far beyond the racetrack.”
A famed motorsport fan, Prince Albert II is also an advocate for clean energy and sustainability, making Monday’s run through the streets of Monaco with the Pioneer 25 rather fitting.
“Prince Albert II’s leadership in environmental causes inspires us all,” said Extreme H founder Alejandro Agag. “His support for Extreme H reinforces the message that hydrogen innovation can unlock solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
“Today’s symbolic drive through Monaco is a testament to hydrogen’s transformative potential.”
A link between royalty and Extreme H (and its predecessor Extreme E) is nothing new. In 2021, William, Prince of Wales, tested the Extreme E Odyssen 21 at Knockhill Circuit in Scotland. Like Prince Albert this time around, Prince William was briefed and coached by Extreme E race-winner Catie Munnings ahead of getting in the car. Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al Abdullah Al Faisal of Saudi Arabia has also been a frequent visitor to the Extreme E races hosted in the Kingdom.