Aston Martin has unveiled a Hybrid Hydrogen race car based on the four-door Rapide S that will make its racing debut next month at the 41st ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring.

The Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S will become the first hydrogen-powered car to compete in an international event as well as the first zero CO2 emissions sports car to complete a race pace lap at the Nürburgring 24-hour race.

The hybrid hydrogen race car is developed in partnership with hydrogen experts Alset Global and features twin turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine, that is able to run on petrol, pure gaseous hydrogen, or a blend of both.

In pure hydrogen mode, the car has zero CO2 emissions, while emitting virtually only water from the exhaust.

Welcoming the debut of the Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S, Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez said: “As we celebrate our centenary in 2013 and look back on a century of excitement, innovation and style it’s also the perfect time to look to the future with this astonishing race car.

The Hybrid Hydrogen system comprises a hydrogen fuel rail, four ultra-high strength carbon-fibre storage tanks, which hold a total of 3.5kg of hydrogen at a pressure of 350bar and proprietary engine management system.