With a clear focus on sustainability, Manthey will take to the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 2026 with a further developed version of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. The vehicle will celebrate its race debut at the third round of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) and will later also be used in the 24-hour race. The focus will be particularly on the use of synthetic fuel and components made from recycled materials.
Following a successful 2025 season, which included a top 20 finish in the 24-hour race, Manthey and Griesemann Gruppe are continuing their collaboration. In the anniversary year of both partners, a specially developed vehicle concept is once again being created. The new race car is based on the 992.1 generation of the 911 GT3 Cup and has been further developed specifically for use on the Nordschleife.
Familiar names will share the cockpit: Björn Griesemann, Georg Griesemann, Dirk Adorf, and Marco Holzer will share the car with starting number 992. The drivers were already able to gain extensive experience on the Nordschleife last year and were competitive in their class as well as in the overall field.
Technically, Manthey is relying on a comprehensively revised aerodynamics and cooling system. Numerous components – including the front end, fenders, rear fairing, and rear wing – are made from recycled carbon fiber composite (CfK). Furthermore, an existing chassis is deliberately used to conserve resources. A centrally located radiator not only improves temperature control but also reduces the risk of damage in race incidents. In addition, brake cooling and aerodynamics have been further optimized, partly through new add-on parts and altered airflow.
The chassis has also been adapted: widened wheel arches allow for a wider track, while new lightweight wheels save additional weight. For long-distance use, a closed tank system has also been integrated, which allows refueling via the front hood.
A central element of the project is the use of eFuel. The race car will be powered entirely by the synthetic fuel „eFuel Race 98,“ which is being developed as part of a research project at the TU Bergakademie Freiberg. The fuel is based on eMethanol, which is produced using green hydrogen, and can be used in conventional combustion engines without technical modifications. Accordingly, the vehicle will compete in the alternative fuels category.
In addition to the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring in mid-May, other appearances are scheduled beforehand, including NLS races and qualifying sessions. A special highlight: during the race, Dirk Adorf will provide live commentary for parts of the drive and offer insights directly from the cockpit.
Manthey sees the project as a successful combination of motorsport and innovation. The goal is to combine high-performance racing technology with sustainable approaches and thereby set new impulses. The Griesemann group also emphasizes that synthetic fuels could play an important role in the future – especially when it comes to making existing technologies more climate-friendly.