More electro racing

We should have seen it coming — but we certainly would not have heard it coming.

The FIM has announced an electric-motorcycle road race series for 2010.

The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme is the governing body of the MotoGP and World Superbike road racing series, so this brings so-called "zero emissions" racing into the big time. It also clashes with the already established electric road racing series established this year, the TTXGP, which staged its first racing event during the Isle of Man races in June.

The FIM’s e-Power International Series is provisionally scheduled to consist of four races that will be held during Endurance World Championship events. A date for the Albacete 8 Hours has not been set, but others are Le Mans 24 Hours on April 18, Bol d’Or on September 12, and Doha 8 Hours on November 14.

Rules and other little details have not been announced.

FIM president Vito Ippolito says the organization has an agreement with the United National Environmental Programme. "We put in place every year initiatives aimed at making the motorcycle world aware and reminding us of our duties towards our planet."

But TTXGP founder Azhar Hussain said his 2010 calendar "remains unaffected" despite his disappointment that the FIM has launched its own electric series.

Meanwhile, NASCAR has announced its own electric series for 2025 — just kidding.