A British team has started to build a car capable of reaching speeds in excess of 1,000 mph. On 23rd October, 2008, Richard Noble, the one-time holder of the land speed record, announced the launch of a three-year mission to create the car.
Following 18 months of secret tests and studies, the design of the car has been revealed. The car is powered by both a jet and a rocket, and will travel faster than a bullet fired from a handgun.
The Bloodhound SSC (super sonic car) will be driven by pilot Andy Green, who is the current land speed record holder at 763 mph. If it reaches its target speed of 1,000 mph, it will also break the low altitude speed record for an aircraft. Built from carbon fiber and titanium to withstand the 12 tons per square meter of air pressure that will bear down on the car’s structure at maximum speed. The wheels are also made from titanium, as other materials would explode as they spin at over 10,000 rpm.
The primary goal is not to build the world’s fastest car, but instead to inspire future generations to take up science and technology-related careers. Each step of the design, building and running of the car will be shared with the public, as it aims to become one of the most popular engineering projects in the world. The Bloodhound project will make full use of YouTube, Twitter and other social network channels to ensure it achieves this goal.
1,000-MPH Cars
Bloodhound SSC is Faster Than a Speeding Bullet
Trend Themes
1. High Speed Transportation - The development and production of vehicles capable of reaching previously unattainable speeds offers opportunities for innovation towards creating efficient and safe high-speed transportation.
2. Advanced Materials - The need to build vehicles capable of withstanding extreme pressure and temperature demands innovation in the development and application of advanced materials.
3. STEM Education Promotion - Projects like the Bloodhound SSC offer opportunities for companies and organizations to support STEM education initiatives by inspiring future generations of scientists and engineers.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - The development of vehicles capable of reaching unprecedented speeds creates opportunities for innovation in the automotive industry towards the production of faster and more efficient vehicles.
2. Aerospace - The design and development of the Bloodhound SSC blurs the line between aerospace and automotive technology, creating opportunities for innovation in both industries.
3. Education Technology - The promotion of STEM education initiatives through social media and other innovative platforms presents a growth opportunity for education technology companies.