Bloodhound's record attempt in 2019

16th May 2018

Anna Flockett

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With over two years’ worth of discussions with a major third party, it has finally led to this month and a very significant development – one that will enhance BLOODHOUND’s ability to raise funds and achieve its goals. It is in the middle of detailed planning so there are not too many specifics but there will be soon.

Bloodhound said: “There have been many false dawns over the life of the Project and we have, regrettably but unavoidably, tested the patience of our friends, supporters and team. The BLOODHOUND leadership team firmly believes this development will be a game changer… but we want to prove this, not merely hope for it.”

While intense fund-raising activity has been ongoing, the Project has suffered a setback in the form of two important suppliers going into receivership before they were able to complete their work on BLOODHOUND.

In light of this, but with the very real prospect that the ability to raise funds is about to be transformed, the team has re-evaluated plans for running the car. The opportunity now exists to reduce the time delay between conducting the high-speed tests (known as ‘BH500’) and the first record attempt.

BLOODHOUND SSC will therefore be flown to Northern Cape, South Africa, in May 2019, ready to take advantage of a desert surface freshly conditioned by seasonal flooding. A record attempt will be made later in the year (October – November). The car will remain in South Africa between events, greatly reducing logistics costs.

Development of the mono-propellant rocket required for the first record attempt will resume in August 2018, with tests taking place at Newquay Aero Hub, scene of BLOODHOUND SSC’s successful 200mph shakedown runs.