JCB Hydromax Hydrogen Land Speed Record Attempt Accelerates

The News Front Podcast

The News Front Podcast
JCB Hydromax Hydrogen Land Speed Record Attempt Accelerates
Jun 19, 2026
JCB’s ambition to redefine sustainable heavy equipment reaches a pivotal milestone as the JCB Hydromax hydrogen land speed record attempt accelerates. Following an intensive development phase, the innovative vehicle—powered by two cutting-edge JCB hydrogen combustion engines—has officially transitioned from engineering drawings to real-world testing. During recent trials at RAF Wittering, piloted by Wing Commander Andy Green OBE, the car achieved an impressive speed of 177mph, signaling its readiness for the upcoming record-breaking attempts on the Bonneville Salt Flats. This project underscores JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford’s £100 million investment into hydrogen internal combustion engine technology. Beyond the pursuit of an FIA world land speed record, the initiative highlights the practical scalability of zero-carbon hydrogen power. With hydrogen-powered diggers already rolling off production lines, JCB is demonstrating how high-performance engineering can successfully cross over into commercial heavy machinery applications. By proving the durability and efficiency of hydrogen engines in the most demanding environments, JCB is positioning itself at the forefront of the global industrial transition toward net-zero. This achievement marks a significant step forward for hydrogen adoption in heavy industry, showcasing the viability of internal combustion as a sustainable solution for the future.

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