JCB DIESELMAX Hits 350 MPH and Breaks Diesel Land Speed Record

The JCB DIESELMAX achieved a stunning 350 mph, breaking its own
land speed record for diesel-powered cars set a day earlier by Andy Green. On
Aug. 22, the JCB DIESELMAX became the world’s fastest diesel when Green drove it
to a FIA-sanctioned speed of 328.767 mph. The next day he improved on that
significantly with a new record of 350.092 mph after two passes in opposite
directions, within one hour.

Soon after daybreak, he recorded 365.779 mph on his first run and 335.695 mph
on his return, giving the average of 350.092 mph. As he was celebrating with his
elated crew, Green said: “I am so pleased that we have got the car to 350 mph,
which was always our ultimate goal and that was with a slow start to the second
run. There is so much more to come as the car is pulling like a train and we
still haven’t used sixth gear! Today’s record proves the potential we have
always believed JCB DIESELMAX to possess. This is another great result for a
wonderful team and a testament to JCB’s engineering.”

JCB DIESELMAX was JCB chairman Sir Anthony Bamford’s brainchild, born of his
desire to showcase the extreme performance of the JCB444 diesel engine, which
normally powers the company’s backhoe loaders and Loadall telescopic handlers.

After watching the runs, Bamford said: “Yesterday’s triumph was thrilling and
better than I had expected. Today’s surpasses even that. We have proved that we
can do it and we have the world’s fastest diesel car and engine. The JCB
DIESELMAX team has worked at times in adversity and faced numerous heartaches
with fortitude. These record-breaking successes prove to the world the
excellence of JCB engineering and teamwork.”