Andy Green aims to shatter three speed records with hydrogen-powered JCB Hydromax

British driver Andy Green will attempt to break three world speed records in August 2023. He will pilot the hydrogen-powered JCB Hydromax, a 32-foot-long vehicle designed to surpass existing benchmarks. The FIA has confirmed it will oversee the record attempts at the event. Green is no stranger to land speed achievements. In 1997, he became the first person to break the sound barrier on land with the ThrustSSC. Nearly a decade later, in 2006, he set the Diesel Land Speed record at 328 mph using the JCB Dieselmax. The very next day, he pushed the same vehicle to 350 mph, shattering his own record.

The JCB Hydromax represents a major leap in technology. Compared to its diesel predecessor, it is lighter, more aerodynamic, and packs greater power. Green aims to exceed three specific targets: the Hydrogen ICE record (185 mph), the overall Hydrogen record (302 mph), and a new JCB Hydromax benchmark (350 mph). Testing phases have already provided critical insights into hydrogen-powered performance, with each run contributing to future developments. Green has expressed confidence in the vehicle’s capabilities. He has stated that he would be 'amazed' if the Hydromax fails to surpass the 350 mph mark.

The upcoming record attempts will take place under FIA supervision in August. If successful, the JCB Hydromax could set new standards for hydrogen-powered vehicles. The data gathered from these runs may also influence future advancements in sustainable high-speed engineering.