There are unique challenges that relate specifically to the NZ record that are centered around the distance of the runway that the car will run on. Although a venue has yet to be confirmed we can assume the car will run on at least a 2.4km runway. The vehicle must make 2 runs over one kilometre within 1 hour to set an average speed. To have equal stopping and accelerating distances at each end, the timed kilometre must be located in the centre of the runway which will provide only a 700m stopping area at each end.
This provides a challenge as the 4 ton car must be stopped within 700m or it will plough through whatever is beyond the runway and cause significant damage to the car. A combination of parachutes and disc brakes will be used to stop the car. The car can reach a theoretical speed of 580km/h (360mph) after accelerating for 1700m.
The Australian landspeed record represents a significant challenge. Not only must we design and build a car and have an engine with sufficient power, the weather must be kind enough to let us use the salt lake in dry conditions. We require a track length of 15km to set the record and the conditions must be perfect.
If conditions are right and we have sufficient power in the car we will push for a record of over 1,000km/h. A record of over 1,030km/h will qualify as the world single jet car record.
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