Fuel Cell
Jaz 350-251-03 Fuel Cell Filler Plate Straight Neck Assembly with Vented Twist Lock Cap
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
RCI Racing 1322G 32-Gallon Circle Track Fuel Cell with Red Powdercoated Steel Can
Jaz 281-012-06 Pro Sport 12 Gallon Fuel Cell with 45 Degree Fill and Flapper Valve
What Is a Racing Fuel Cell?
A racing fuel cell is a purpose-built fuel storage vessel engineered to replace a vehicle's factory gas tank in competition and high-performance applications. Unlike a standard OEM fuel tank, a fuel cell is specifically designed to survive the violent forces of a crash or rollover without rupturing or spilling fuel — one of the greatest fire hazards in motorsports. Racing fuel cells are designed primarily for racing and have very high burst strength to prevent race gas from spilling out during a wreck or rollover — something factory fuel tanks, whether steel or plastic, simply aren't built to withstand.
Why a Fuel Cell Matters for Your Build
The benefits of a fuel cell go well beyond crash protection. Racing fuel cells provide many performance and safety advantages over factory original gas tanks: the material strength and inner design help protect drivers in crashes by preventing fuel spillage, while their construction is optimized for consistent fuel delivery in competitive racing and extreme off-road conditions.
Inside the cell, reticulated safety foam is a key component — it occupies the interior of the tank and helps suppress fuel slosh, which can starve the engine of fuel during hard cornering, braking, or off-camber terrain. Fuel cells enhance vehicle performance by providing stable fuel delivery under demanding conditions, and are designed to minimize fuel slosh and ensure consistent fuel flow — crucial for maintaining optimal engine performance during races.
What to Look for When Shopping Fuel Cells
- Capacity: High-strength plastic racing fuel cells and steel racing fuel cells with internal bladders are available in several shapes and sizes — from 5 gallons to 32 gallons — for installation flexibility and maximizing race track performance.
- Material: Aluminum cells offer a premium, lightweight option, while cross-linked polyethylene plastic cells are extremely impact-resistant and widely used across all levels of competition.
- Sanctioning Body Compliance: Many racing series require SFI-spec or other certified fuel cells. Always verify that your chosen cell meets the rules of your class or sanctioning body before installation.
- Fuel Compatibility: Make sure your cell is rated for your fuel type — gasoline, race gas, ethanol (E85), methanol, or diesel.
- Mounting Hardware: Proper support straps, mounting kits, and sump-style pickups are essential for safe installation and reliable fuel feed.
Top Brands in Racing Fuel Cells
RCI Racing is a well-established name in the fuel cell market, offering both aluminum and polyethylene options for drag racing, circle track, rock crawling, and more. RCI race fuel cells combine rugged construction with intelligent engineering, featuring tough polyethylene construction for maximum impact resistance and sump-style pickups to prevent fuel starvation. RCI will also make custom aluminum fuel cells on request, making them a great choice for builders with unique space constraints.
Jaz is one of the most comprehensive fuel cell brands in the industry. Since 1980, JAZ has been engineering and manufacturing driver restraint components, fueling solutions, and gear for professional racers and pit crews. Their lineup spans aluminum, circle track, drag race, Pro Sport, Pro Street, and specialized fuel cells. JAZ manufactures 98% of all its products in-house, including rotational, injection, and blow-molded products, upholstery, and metal fabrication — a level of vertical integration that translates directly into consistent quality control across their entire catalog.