Chinese automaker Geely is rescuing the Bloodhound Project from delays caused by funding and other issues. The British project aims to set a Land Speed Record (LSR) of 1,000 mph. Geely will be adding millions in funding along with technical help.
Geely’s timely intervention will make it possible for the team to stick to its original timeline, with the 800 mph LSR scheduled for next year in South Africa. On success, modifications will be made to the jet and rocket powered car to attempt the 1,000 mph record.
The ultimate supercar will be driven by Wing commander Andy Green, who also happens to hold the current LSR record. The Bloodhound SSC is powered by an 800 bhp Jaguar AJ133, 5 litre F-type V8 engine supplied by Jaguar.
Geely’s involvement includes, but is not limited to, noise reduction in the cockpit and managing component frequency – a critical aspect considering the high speeds under consideration. Moreover, Geely hopes to contribute to the project’s educational program by expanding it in China and Asia.
The Bloodhound team is currently in the process of changing its rocket motor from a hybrid rocket to a mono-propellant motor (both from the Nammo group). The mono propellant motor has the advantage of only requiring refueling between runs, while the hybrid rocket motor has to be disconnected and taken out.