JCB Hydromax sets hydrogen speed record in Utah

The JCB Hydromax has set a new hydrogen-powered speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, reaching a speed of 406.320 mph. Driven by Andy Green, the vehicle more than doubled the previous record of 185.5 mph set by a BMW H2R in 2004.

Unlike many hydrogen vehicles that rely on fuel cells or electric transmissions, the Hydromax utilizes a hydrogen internal combustion engine. The vehicle reached 400 mph in approximately 72 seconds during its run on the 12-mile course. This achievement serves as a demonstration of hydrogen combustion technology under extreme thermal and mechanical loads.

German company Poppe + Potthoff contributed critical system components to the project, highlighting the integration of high-performance engineering with hydrogen technology. The British equipment manufacturer JCB is developing hydrogen engines for its construction and agricultural machinery.