JCB's a world-beater

JCB's Diesel-max has blasted into the history books by becoming the world's fastest derv-powered car.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Mat Watson

01st September 2006

And Auto Express was at the Bonneville Salt Flats in the US to witness the momentous occasion. At the first attempt, driver Andy Green clocked an average 328mph over two separate timed mile runs - 92mph more than the previous record, which stood since 1973.


	Tthe digger manufacturer, based in Uttoxeter, Staffs, said it might be back at the Salt Flats next year as the Dieselmax team believes its car could hit 400mph

Within 24 hours, Green bettered this by taking the car to 350mph. However, after this new record was officially confirmed by the FIA, Green claimed it could go faster. "There's plenty left in the car yet; it's incredible," he said.

"In the first of the timed mile runs on our second attempt, we hit 365mph without using sixth gear," he added. RAF pilot Green, who drove Thrust SSC past the sound barrier in 1997 to become the fastest man on earth, said the JCB's tyres were the limiting factor. They were rated to 300mph.

However, the digger manufacturer, based in Uttoxeter, Staffs, said it might be back at the Salt Flats next year as the Dieselmax team believes its car could hit 400mph. A spokesman explained: "We were surprised how well it performed on the salt. It would be interesting to see what the car could do on faster-rated tyres."