Biofuel powerboat in attempt atround-the-world record

Earthrace, the world's fastest powerboat solely using biofuel, left Sagunto, Spain, on April 27, in an attempt to break the round-the-world speed record while promoting the use of sustainable fuels. It left Puerto Rico and has successfully avoided delay in its attempt to beat the round the world speed record and complete its transit through the Panama Canal.

Earthrace is also offering people the opportunity of a lifetime to become part of this historic event by purchasing one or more of the legs. They will also be able to pilot Earthrace during the leg, and have bragging rights for a lifetime. The crew's progress can be followed at www.earthrace.net where regular blogs are posted by the captain and crew.

This impressive 78-foot wave-piercing trimaran runs exclusively on biodiesel and has a net zero carbon footprint, making it one of the world's most environment friendly powerboats. This new attempt will see Earthrace cross the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans as they attempt to circumnavigate the Earth at a maximum speed of 40 knots.

EORC commercial manager Pippo Psaila, local producers of biodiesel, said that his company has taken a keen interest in this project: "This is such an original and fantastic way to promote biodiesel on an international level. It deserves our admiration and co-operation, especially in these days of international concern on fuel consumption".

Earthrace is run as a non-profit venture with a boat, ground and London-base crew made up of international volunteers to promote biofuel. It is the highest profile powerboat in the world, as well as one of the most environment friendly.

Biodiesel was formulated in 1895 as a renewable fuel made from plant oils and animal fats, it is biodegradable, and produces 78.5 per cent lower carbon dioxide emissions than petroleum diesel.