20 years ago, JCB, a company renowned for producing agricultural and construction equipment, shocked the world when it unveiled Dieselmax - a land-speed record car that shot to both fame and speed on the Bonneville Salt Flats in the USA, achieving the diesel land speed record of 350.092mph. Now, in 2026, JCB is back at it, only this time, Lord Bamford and his engineers want to set the record with Hydrogen power.
The JCB Hydromax is the latest landspeed record car from JCB. Two 800hp hydrogen combustion engines power it, generating an overall power output of 1,600hp and a targeted top speed of over 350mph.
Tom Beimish is the man largely responsible for JCB's hydrogen technology and has been an integral part of the Hydromax program. John Marcar speaks with Tom to find out how and why hydrogen is the future for JCB rather than diesel, hybrid, or electric power.
Wing Commander Andy Green OBE is a former RAF fast-jet pilot who has spent the last 20+ years at the controls of fighter jets for the Royal Air Force. Now, he's stepping into the driver's seat of Hydromax to push the latest technology to the max and set a new world record.
John sits down with Tom and Andy to discover more about this exciting project at a shakedown test at RAF Wittering.
Follow the story by following @JCBMachines on Instagram.
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The Driven Podcast brings you motoring-focused discussions, observations from the automotive world, and interviews exploring our guests' careers, exploits, and anything else worth discussing.
We will also keep you up to speed with the latest automotive news stories and insights into the cars and motorcycles we're reviewing at Driven. Find more content on our website, YouTube channel, and social feeds, all readily available to explore via the links below.
The Driven Podcast is a Paramex Digital Production hosted by Motoring journalist, producer, and presenter John Marcar, Legendary Photographer and Classic Car restorer Amy Heynes, Professional Racing and Precision Driver Miles Lacey, Journalist and presenter Alex Goy and Journalist and broadcaster Charlotte Vowden, PLUS the occasional special guest host.
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Title Music - Tom Kent Music
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