JCB's hydrogen-powered Hydromax shatters land-speed record at 406 mph

At Utah's Bonneville Salt Flats, JCB's Hydromax set a new world land-speed record, reaching an average of 406.320 mph (653.909 kph) over two timed runs. The vehicle, driven by retired RAF fighter pilot Andy Green, combines two production-based engines from JCB's Derbyshire factory, re-built and fitted with Le Mans-type spark plugs to meet the extreme demands of the record attempt. The FIA, motorsport's governing body, validated the achievement as the fastest speed ever recorded for a hydrogen-powered internal-combustion car.

JCB's £100 million hydrogen engine investment, started in 2021, aims to demonstrate that hydrogen can power heavy equipment where batteries fall short, and the record run used just over 2 kg of hydrogen, producing only water and limited nitrogen oxides. Chairman Anthony Bamford, who originated the hydrogen record bid, highlighted the feat as proof that hydrogen technology can perform at the highest levels with zero carbon emissions. The Hydromax features a steel-frame chassis, composite monocoque driver cell, and a dual-engine layout driving both front and rear wheels.