Recognizing the significant role that motorsports plays in accelerating the development of new vehicle technologies for consumers, the ALMS joined with the U.S. Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency and SAE International to become the first to earn a “Green Racing” designation.

Like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the ALMS rules provide open competition and encourage new technologies, including encouraging the use of alternative fuels.

To date, fifteen different car manufacturers have entered 2011 ALMS or the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2011.

Using the Green Racing steering group’s formula to recognize the Prototype and the GT car that post the scores for Clean, Fast and Efficient performance at each race, is the MICHELIN® GREEN X® Challenge – a race within the race at every ALMS event.

The 2011 ALMS MICHELIN GREEN X Challenge champions win automatic invitations for entry to the 2012 24 Hours of Le Mans.

In just 25 races, ALMS teams have raced with technologies ranging from direct injection, low-sulfur gas-to-liquid turbo-diesels, gas/electric hybrid, flywheel hybrid, electric wheel motors, E10, cellulosic E85 and isobutanol.

In addition, teams, manufacturers and technical innovators have presented reduced energy air conditioning and lighting systems, zero viscosity oil and extended wear tires. Ironically, 22 of the first 50 MICHELIN GREEN X Challenge winners have also won their respective class on the track.

“People think that you can’t be clean, fast, and efficient, but the racers and the manufacturers know that you can. In reality, the most efficient cars win,” said Silvia Mammone, Michelin motorsports manager.

Meanwhile, the Green Racing steering group reports that in 2011 competition to date, ALMS teams have displaced 40 percent less oil than in 2006.