Overview
- The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile officially recorded Andy Green reaching 406.320 mph in JCB’s 32-foot Hydromax, a streamliner powered by two adapted hydrogen internal-combustion engines producing a combined 1,600 hp.
- JCB, which has spent about $134 million developing hydrogen engines, says the Hydromax emits no tailpipe CO2 and that it has contracted to buy green hydrogen for the project, though most global hydrogen today is made from fossil fuels.
- The team logged a 368.347 mph practice run before the official attempt, and engineers say the Bonneville Salt Flats’ low-friction surface and limited grip required special testing and parachute braking to manage high speeds safely.
- Hydrogen combustion differs from fuel-cell electric power and poses distinct risks because hydrogen is stored under pressure and is highly flammable, a concern underscored by last year’s fatal crash at Bonneville.
- The record links Green’s long land-speed legacy to a technology test for heavy industry and raises practical questions about scaling green hydrogen supply, safety protocols, and whether combustion or fuel-cell approaches will best cut transport emissions.