InfraStructures - September 2006 - JCB DIESELMAX Becomes World's Fastest Diesel

JCB DIESELMAX Becomes World's Fastest Diesel

On August 22, JCB DIESELMAX became the world's fastest diesel-powered car when Andy Green drove it to an FIA-sanctioned speed of 328,767 mph (526,027 km/h) on the Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah, beating the existing record, set by Virgil W. Snyder at Bonneville in the Thermo King Streamliner on August 25 1973 at 235,756 mph.

Then, the next day, he improved on that significantly with a new record* of 350,092 mph after two passes in opposite directions, within one hour.

Running soon after daybreak he recorded 365,779 mph on his first run and 335,695 mph on his return, giving the average of 350,092 mph.

As he was feted by his jubilant crew, Green said: "I am so pleased that we have got the car to 350 mph which was always our ultimate goal and that was with a slow start to the second run. There is so much more to come as the car is pulling like a train and we still haven't used sixth gear!

"Today's record proves the potential we have always believed JCB DIESELMAX to possess. This is another great result for a wonderful team and a testament to British engineering."

"350mph is a fantastic speed for a diesel-powered car. To have built the world's fastest diesel in such a short timescale is a wonderful achievement for the JCB DIESELMAX team," said Dr Tim Leverton, project director. "What is even more impressive is to set three records in only six days.

"Once again we have demonstrated the engineering and team effort that has gone into creating this extraordinary car."

JCB DIESELMAX was JCB Chairman Sir Anthony Bamford's brainchild, born of his desire to showcase the extreme performance of the JCB444 diesel engine which normally powers the company's backhoe loaders and Loadall telescopic handlers.

After watching the second day's runs he said: "Yesterday's triumph was thrilling, and better than I had expected. Today's surpasses even that. We have proved that we can do it, and we have the world's fastest diesel car and engine. The JCB DIESELMAX team has worked at times in adversity and faced numerous heartaches with fortitude. These record-breaking successes prove to the world the excellence of British engineering and teamwork."

*subject to official ratification by the FIA.

Source: JCB Inc.