JCB Hydromax sets new FIA World Land Speed Record for hydrogen
JCB and Andy Green have achieved a groundbreaking feat, setting a new FIA land speed record for hydrogen combustion-powered vehicles. This achievement comes on the heels of their recent success at the SCTA record-breaking event during Bonneville Speed Week. The Hydromax streamliner, powered by two JCB heavy machinery engines, reached an astonishing average speed of 406.320km/h (252.464 mph).
This record-breaking performance is a testament to the team's innovation and engineering prowess. The vehicle, piloted by the legendary Andy Green, completed two mandatory runs in opposite directions within a one-hour window, as mandated by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). The first run clocked an impressive 400.623 mph (644.740 km/h), followed by an even more spectacular 412.135 mph (663.267 km/h) in the second pass.
These speeds surpass the previous hydrogen internal combustion record held by BMW in 2004, which was a mere 185.5 mph (298.533 km/h). Additionally, the Hydromax's performance exceeds the 303 mph (487.631 km/h) mark set by hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, solidifying its place as a groundbreaking achievement in the field of sustainable land speed records.
The Hydromax's success also marks a significant milestone by surpassing the long-standing diesel land speed record set by Andy Green in the JCB Dieselmax in 2006, which stood at 350.092 mph (563.418 km/h). This achievement highlights the versatility and potential of hydrogen power in the automotive industry.
JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford expressed his enthusiasm, stating, 'Twenty years ago, we introduced the JCB Dieselmax to Bonneville, showcasing the capabilities of British engineering with diesel power. Today, we've achieved the same feat with hydrogen-powered engines. This record is set by production-based engines, the same ones powering JCB diggers, demonstrating that hydrogen is a viable and sustainable solution for the future.'
The Hydromax's engines, manufactured at JCB's engine plant in Derbyshire, produce a combined 1600bhp (1193kW). These engines are not only powerful but also environmentally friendly, as they produce zero emissions. The project's rapid development, starting in February of last year, showcases the team's dedication and efficiency.
The FIA has acknowledged the significance of this achievement, with FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem praising the run as a historic milestone for motorsport. He emphasized how innovation, performance, speed, and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. Andy Green, the pilot, described the experience as a privilege, praising the car's stability, strength, and speed.
The Hydromax now joins the prestigious list of JCB's speed-record holders, including the Dieselmax, Fastrac tractor, and JCB GT backhoe loader. This achievement not only solidifies JCB's position as a leader in engineering and innovation but also opens up new possibilities for sustainable land speed records.
