THE BLOODHOUND PROJECT IS SET TO RUN IN OCTOBER

Over the past 9 years, there has been a lot of talking about the Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC), which is ultimately intended to break the land speed record by travelling at 1000 mph (1,609 km/h). One thing we have not seen is the car actually moving under its own power, which is set to change coming October 26th, when it is scheduled to be driven for the first time - and the public is invited. 

The trail runs will be held at the Cornwall Airport Newquay in the UK and will see the car reaching speeds of up to 200mph (322km/h) on the 2.7 km runway. It will be driven by Wing Commander Andy Green, who will also be at the wheel for its late 2018 record attempt in the Southern African desert. 

Before the October runs, the car will undergo a few tests, in which its EJ200 jet engine (sourced from a Eurofighter Typhoon) will be run up while the vehicle is chained to the ground; this will be done to evaluate the air intake, fuel and electric system. 

Assuming these tests will go OK, the runway trails will then be used to assess things such as steering, brakes, suspension and data systems. It will also allow the support crew to practise operating procedures, safety protocols and radio communication. 

Because of the runway on which it will be running in Cornwall, the car will be using pneumatic-tired wheels from an English Electric Lightning fighter plane. These tires are slightly wider than the solid aluminium wheels it will be used in South Africa, so some sections of its carbon fibre bodywork will be removed to accommodate the. 

Check out The Bloodhound Project's website to book your ticket today!