ALMS CEO Scott Atherton to headline Alternative Fuels Forum at the CME

Motorsports has long been at the leading edge when it comes to innovation and the development of automotive technologies. These days, environmental issues are front of mind in many spheres, including the auto industry and motorsports. The escalating cost of traditional energy has only heightened awareness of the need for new options.

Many in motorsports are working to be part of the solution, and one aspect of that is the development of practical, alternative fuels for use on the racetrack, and ultimately, on our roads. On Saturday, January 23 at the Canadian Motorsports Expo – starting at noon on The Canadian Tire Stage – several experts will take part in an Alternative Fuels Forum. They will discuss energy issues and motorsports-related solutions for the future. Headlining the panel is American Le Mans Series CEO Scott Atherton.

“The American Le Mans Series is a leader when it comes to alternative fuels, with several options currently being used and in development,” said CME President Glenn Butt. “And we are deeply honoured to have Scott Atherton attending the CME and participating in this forum.”

Atherton is expected to be joined by several noted experts in their fields, including Dan McTeague. The Canadian Member of Parliament is a household name to many Canadians because of his work as a consumer watchdog when it comes to the price of gasoline.

Also on stage will be Michigan-based Dave Kalen, who has been involved in emissions measurements for hybrid vehicles through projects like ChallengeX and EcoCAR. He’s also a member of the Off Road Implementation Advisory Group for the California Air Resource Board and an advisor to the SEMA fuel economy task force. Recently, he’s become involved with the stock car-related project Green Racing, in which an engine is being tested with alternative fuels and technologies such as electronic fuel injection and catalysts.

Joining the other experts will be Mitch Markusich of Ontario Competition Fuels. Markusich has been a pioneer in the development and testing of unleaded fuels, dating back to 1992 when the Canadian government implemented a ban on leaded fuels for racing purposes. Additionally, John Stefko – of Stefko Racing Engines – will bring his 25+ years experience building race engines to the forum.

Change is inevitable, and many in motorsports – from NASCAR to IndyCar – are working hard to develop alternatives that are beneficial for the sport and society. This process is something that will impact every racer and series in years to come. Join us Saturday at the CME to learn what’s happening on this front.

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 22 to 24 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News and supported by companies like Lucas Oil Canada, NASCAR Canada, Mosport International Raceway and Canadian Tire. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly and Jessica Zemken will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.
For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com, call Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or email him at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email expo@insidetracknews.com.