About POWERADE In 2009, POWERADE Zero sports Drink scientists created ION4, revolutionizing the way athletes stay hydrated. ION4 is an advanced electrolyte system designed to help replenish four electrolytes lost in sweat. POWERADE ION4 is a nationally available sports drink that helps replenish these four electrolytes. In 1988, Powerade became the official sports drink of the Olympics, alongside Aquarius, another sports drink made by Coca-Cola.It is a rival of another sports drink, Gatorade. In July 2001, The Coca-Cola Company launched a new formula for Powerade including vitamins B 3, B 6 and B 12, which play a role in energy metabolism. Powerade and Gatorade are among the most popular sports drinks, but opinions differ as to which one is superior. This article reviews the differences between Powerade and Gatorade, including