Extreme E means a lot to Hamilton and his 'love of the planet'

Lewis Hamilton has set up his own team to compete in the new Extreme E-Championship. A rally-raid championship for electric cars. He says he can combine his two great passions in this.

"What drew my attention to Extreme E was the great locations it visits and the fact that it actually highlights climate problems," said the World Champion in an interview with BBC Radio 4.

Hamilton wants to have a positive impact on the planet

"Extreme E really appealed to me because of its focus on the environment. Each of us has the power to make a difference, and it means so much to me that I can use my love of racing, along with my love of our planet, to have a positive impact."

Hamilton himself will not be actively involved with his team X44, as he has no time to do so given his preparations for the new Formula 1 season with Mercedes.