JCB Hydromax testing completed with Ricardo support

Ricardo, a global engineering company specialising in complex propulsion and energy systems, is working with JCB on its hydrogen engine land speed record attempt with JCB Hydromax. Ricardo hydrogen combustion and engine mechanical expertise are being applied to significantly uprate the JCB hydrogen engine from 74hp to 800hp, while almost doubling its rated speed. The team has also supported the reduction of weight of the engine by 100kg. 

The land speed record attempt will take place in Utah, USA in August, marking 20 years since Ricardo supported JCB to set the land speed record for a diesel-powered car, JCB Dieselmax. In this year’s attempt, the JCB Hydromax team seek to not only achieve the land speed record for a hydrogen vehicle but exceed the 350.092mph diesel land speed record set by JCB Dieselmax.

The world’s fastest man, Wing Commander Andy Green, drove the JCB Hydromax at the RAF Wittering tests, achieving a top speed of 208mph. Andy Green, who drove JCB Dieselmax, will also drive JCB Hydromax for the world record attempt later this year. 

Mirroring the vehicle architecture of JCB Dieselmax, JCB Hydromax will feature two of the adapted engines, with one engine-gearbox powering the front axle, and one powering the rear. In addition to development of the engine the Ricardo team have undergone extensive testing of the engines at their Shoreham-by-Sea research facilities. This included testing the engines to run on their sides allowing for the vehicle, developed with support by Prodrive, to improve vehicle aerodynamics.

Speaking of the achievement at the RAF Wittering testing, Chief Programme Engineer, Ben Hasset said: “We’re delighted with the results achieved at Wittering and to be able to see the JCB Hydromax car in motion and putting power down for the first time. Ricardo is incredibly proud of the achievement the JCB Hydromax team have made since the kick-off in June last year. The progress made by the team not only puts the JCB Hydromax car in a good position to achieve a world record but further demonstrates hydrogen internal combustion engines as a future propulsion technology.”