Bloodhound rocket-car enters construction phase

The project to build the world's first-ever 1000mph car has been launched.

The Bloodhound SSC Project is intended to build a supersonic car to break the world land speed record. The Project is headed by Richard Noble and Andy Green, the former and current holders of the record.

Green remains the only man to have broken the sound barrier on land, piloting Bloodhound's predecessor Thrust SSC, in 1997. Noble had been the record-holder between 1983 and 1997, before project managing Green's successful bid.

Bloodhound was launched in 2008. Now, after more than four years' research, design and development, the pair say it is time to begin the construction process.

Working with the Motorsport Industry Association, Bloodhound have invited Britain's leading motorsport engineering companies to produce the 3,000 bespoke components required, via competitive tender.

“UK Motorsport engineering is the best in the world,” said Noble. “We’re delighted to partner with the Motorsport Industry Association to launch our supersonic work packages, as they sit at the heart of British motorsport and offer access to over 9,000 leading UK technology companies.”
 
“The Project is accelerating rapidly as the engineering Team crack on with the build phase,” said Conor La Grue, Product Sponsorship Lead, “Support from the UK motorsport community will be invaluable in helping meet very tight deadlines Bloodhound has set itself”.

The Team are determined to produce a rolling chassis by Christmas 2012 with UK runway tests pencilled for the second quarter of 2013. High speed testing (and the record attempt) are slated for the desert race track, Hakskeen Pan, South Africa for later in 2013.

Bloodhound, which is specifically aiming to inspire a new generation of engineers, also has an Education Programme, with 4,800 primary and secondary schools signed up and using the Bloodhound education resources to help bring science, technology, engineering and maths lessons to life. The programme is also growing internationally with 3,666 schools from 62 countries getting involved.

Images show some of the Bloodhouse SSC's concepts and designs. The vehicle is slated to be completed this year.