In the Emmer-Compascuum in Drenthe, hard work is being done on a new kind of circuit. The E-Circuit Emmen is to become the ‘most sustainable circuit in the world’ and will serve as a testing ground for racing and testing electric cars. The opening is scheduled for next year.
The initiative originated from a partnership between a number of parties, including solar farm builder PowerField, FastNed and the Nuon Solar Team. With the E-Circuit Emmen, these parties want to develop the most sustainable motorsport circuit in the world. Car brands can use the circuit to do test drives or demonstrations with their electric models, in addition, the Nuon Solar Team can use the circuit as a permanent test location. PowerField is currently building a solar park of over 18,000 solar panels next to the circuit. According to the business plan, this must be used to generate 4.5 megawatt peak (MWp) of electricity annually. Converted this is about 4,250 kWh. The circuit itself is expected to require 2.5 MWp annually.
The construction of the E-Circuit is expected to cost € 5 million. The place was previously known as Test Track Thedinga (TTT), which was built in 2012 by the Thedinga family. That circuit was mainly used for teaching drifting courses. The length of the circuit is 850 meters in total and the shape currently consists of two straight sections and two bends. However, the layout of the circuit is still going to be adjusted, says spokesman Ivo van Dam Techzle. Exactly what the circuit should look like is currently being researched. This involves looking at two possible purposes: simulating road situations for driving training or holding races. Ultimately, the goal is to enter into partnerships with one or more car manufacturers, but these discussions have yet to be held. At the moment, the solar panels are being installed first and then carports will be built with charging points in them. Only then is the layout further defined. The opening of the E-Circuit Emmen is expected to take place next year.