Jaguar-The Bloodhound Project tie-up to breach the 1600kmph mark
Breaking land speed records is what the Bloodhound Project is meant for. While the current record stands at 763.035mph (1227.99kmph) set by Andy Green in Thrust SSC in 1997, the Bloodhound project is attempting to not only beat that, but breach the 1000mph (1609kmph) mark as well. British manuafcturer (and subsidiary of Tata Motors), Jaguar has partnered with the project with the ultimate aim of raising the world land speed record above 1000mph, and to assist in inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers. The project has roped in Andy Green, again, to drive the jet-powered Bloodhound Supersonic car.
Jaguar also took the opportunity to announce the introduction of the all-wheel-drive F-type R Coupé to the F-type line-up, promising a debut at the upcoming LA Auto Show on November 19.
While Jaguar is still testing key communications at the Hakskeen Pan in the Northern Cape, South Africa on the AWD F-type R Coupe, they claim a 0–96kmph time of 3.9 seconds (expect 0–100kmph in 4secs) and an electronically limited top speed of 300kmph. The testing in the desert showcased the sability and dynamic ability of the AWD F-Type and helped to complete a battery of important communication tests for the Bloodhound SSC team.
Ian Hoban, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar said, “Our target with engineering the all-wheel drive F-Type was to maintain the engaging rear-drive character that’s so important to Jaguar sports cars, yet offer even greater dynamic capability. The result is a controllable, exploitable and blisteringly fast performance car in all weather and road conditions.”
The AWD F-TYPE R Coupé was driven flat-out by Bloodhound Project Director and former World Land Speed Record holder, Richard Noble who commented, “We are absolutely delighted to announce Jaguar as a Main Partner to the Bloodhound Project. This is a very fine match — Jaguar is very strong on innovation and with its huge drive in advanced technology, education and motorsport track record, we have the perfect partner. Together we have developed outstanding inter-team synergy and this is a very special relationship. We are proud to carry the Jaguar branding on Bloodhound SSC.”
The introduction of the AWD version of the F-Type also signals the expansion of Jaguar’s F-Type line-up from six variants, to 14 variants in 2015. The entire range of F-Types will debut at the LA Auto Show on 19 November, where Andy Green will confirm the full extent of the technical collaboration between Jaguar and the Bloodhound Project.
Watch the F-Type Coupé AWD’s high-speed test in the South African desert:
