Aston Martin F1 sponsor to attempt land-speed record

The FIA will officiate a hydrogen-powered land speed record attempt by British manufacturer JCB at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, marking the company's return to record-breaking 20 years after its diesel-powered triumph.

JCB's purpose-built Hydromax vehicle will target a new benchmark using hydrogen internal combustion engine technology, with Wing Commander Andy Green OBE once again behind the wheel.

Green, the only person to break the sound barrier on land, previously drove JCB's Dieselmax to the FIA world diesel land speed record of 350.092mph in August 2006, a record that remains unbroken.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: "This is a historic moment for speed, technology and innovation. JCB's return to the Bonneville Salt Flats for the hydrogen-powered land speed record attempt is a defining chapter. It is an effort that pushes the boundaries of aerodynamics, engineering excellence and human bravery, while showcasing what is possible when ambition and innovation come together."

He added, "From Bluebird to ThrustSSC and the new JCB Hydromax, the FIA has a proud history of certifying these historic moments. These vehicles inspire the innovators, scientists, and engineers of tomorrow. This hydrogen-powered vehicle will not just attempt to break a world record, but it will shape the future of high-speed sustainable motoring altogether."

The 32-foot Hydromax will be powered by two production-based JCB hydrogen combustion engines producing a combined 1,600bhp. The project represents part of JCB's wider hydrogen programme, developed through a £100 million investment over five years.

Testing will commence in the UK before the team travels to Bonneville SpeedWeek, the world's premier land speed racing event. The team will then pursue officially recognised world records under FIA regulations.

Malcolm Wilson, FIA deputy president for sport, said: "JCB's return to the Bonneville Salt Flats is an exciting moment, not only because of the company's previous success with Dieselmax, but because this project demonstrates how record attempts can continue to push the boundaries of engineering and innovation."

JCB chairman Anthony Bamford concluded: "Britain has a proud heritage of setting speed records and, as a British company, I'm excited to challenge for a new one using hydrogen.

"This is not just about speed; it's about showcasing the world-class engineering talent we have here in the UK and the robustness of our new hydrogen engines."