Ricardo celebrates JCB Hydromax 406mph FIA world land speed record
The world land speed record for the fastest hydrogen vehicle has been set by the JCB Hydromax.
The 32-foot twin-engine vehicle recorded the average speed 400.623 mph in its first run this morning across the Bonneville Salt Flats, and 412.135 mph on its second run, giving the average of 406.320 mph (653.909 kpm) - the fastest a hydrogen internal combustion car has ever travelled.
Developed in just over 15 months with support from Ricardo and Prodrive, JCB Hydromax achieved a staggering 406mph record. In doing so, JCB Hydromax surpassed JCB’s Dieselmax’s land speed record of 350.092 mph set in 2006. It also exceeds the 303 mph hydrogen fuel cell mark — making JCB Hydromax the fastest hydrogen-powered vehicle of any kind in history.
Ricardo was responsible for uprating JCB’s production hydrogen engine from 74 to 800 horsepower, whilst also reducing its weight by 100kg. The team also developed the race engine’s systems to allow them to run on their sides in the car, improving aerodynamics and lowering the centre of gravity. Once development was complete the Ricardo team hand-built six JCB Hydromax race engines to support the initial vehicle testing and the record attempt.
Speaking of the success Ricardo CEO, Jason Oms O’Donnell said: “We’re over the moon at Ricardo with this achievement. That this feat goes from initial conversation to smashing the world record in little over 12 months, is a testament to the minds and hours that the JCB Hydromax teams have put in. A well-deserved congratulations to JCB, the Ricardo, team who worked tirelessly to support with engine development, and our friends at Prodrive.”
Dieselmax veteran and Ricardo, Director, Global Engineering and Operations, Matt Beasley said: “We have done it. Having led the JCB Dieselmax LSR engine development 20 years ago, this achievement feels like full circle moment. It’s an impressive feat of British engineering and demonstrates what is possible with companies at the top of their game come together to with a shared goal.”
Ricardo Chief Programme Engineer, who led the project for Ricardo, Ben Hassett: “I couldn't be happier. This demonstration the possibilities of hydrogen as a propulsion fuel for the future. An incredible achievement from the team.”
