Steam Land Speed Record

The land speed record for a steam powered car hasn't been broken in over 100 years. It's currently held by a purpose built Stanley steamer and the record was set in 1906. (On Ormond Beach, Florida.)

Well the Brits are at the Land Speed business again and hope to eclipse the record of 127 mph by going 170 mph. There's some interesting technology involved, but if you've ever been around steam cars from the turn of the last century you will come away with an understanding of why gasoline engined cars prevailed.

So far they've taken baby steps, shaking down components, before going wide open throttle. They've had the beast up to 80 mph, less than half design speed.

Now I wonder if they can run a steam car on the salt flats? ;-)

The group is 'The British Steam Car Challenge' and their Web page is here.

Hat tip to Motor Authority.