Supersonic car to solve skills shortage

10:22am Friday 24th October 2008

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By Peter Law »

IT IS a supersonic record-breaking bid that it is hoped will inspire a fresh generation of scientists.

As part of the team behind Britain’s latest attempt to break the world land speed record, engineers from Southampton University will use the world’s first 1,000mph car to encourage fresh engineering talent.

Yesterday, those behind the project called Bloodhound SSC unveiled plans for the British supersonic car, which if successful will smash the existing top speed of 763mph set.

The car is being designed by Richard Noble and will be driven by Andy Green, who together hold the current record set in 1997. They hope the Bloodhound SSC project will inspire a new generation of scientists to keep Britain at the cutting edge of technology.

World-leading experts in the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Southampton have been working with the team to develop the educational programme for schools across Britain.

Dr Kenji Takeda, senior lecturer in aeronautics at Southampton, said: “We desperately need more smart young people to become scientists and engineers to tackle the big issues of the 21st century.

“Moving towards a low carbon economy is a massive challenge, and a big part of the solution is new technology. The youngsters of today are the ones who can step up to the plate and help create this new world.

“We’re trying to take science into the classroom in a way that is exhilarating and inspiring.

This iconic project is pushing the boundaries of engineering, and we’re inviting everyone to get involved.”

The team hopes to build the car by the end of next year and to reach 1,000mph by 2011.

“We’re setting off on the most incredible engineering adventure which we hope will inspire the future generations to take up careers in science, engineering and technology,” said Mr Noble.

Hampshire schools who want to get involved should go to bloodhoundssc.com for more information.