Bloodhound SSC is aiming for 500mph next spring

Bloodhound SSC, the land speed record car that’s better known for how frequently its timings move backwards than how fast it travels forwards, looks as if it might be gaining some much needed momentum.

Although - somewhat inevitably - this involves the timings slipping back yet further. After successful 200mph tests at Newquay last October, the intention was for Bloodhound to head out to South Africa this year to start sub-sonic testing. Those plans have been shifted back to May 2019.

However, this is a more rational plan that reduces costs - Bloodhound will remain in South Africa next summer, saving on transport costs, before attempting an all-out assault on the current Land Speed Record  in November 2019.

The news comes as Bloodhound prepares to reveal a major new funding partner. Expect an announcement on that... well, sometime in the future. In the meantime, development of the Nammo monopropellant rocket will resume this August at Newquay. This will allow Bloodhound to run up to 500mph next spring with many of the rocket components already installed.

You won’t need us to point out that behind the scenes Bloodhound has endured setbacks. Two key suppliers have gone bankrupt this year. But keep the faith, people; when it finally runs you’re going to want to be part of it.

In the meantime, anyone care to start a sweepstake for exactly what day/month/year Bloodhound will hit 1,000mph?

Bloodhound SSC vs McLaren 720S