Thrust2

Thrust2 is a noteworthy British jet-propelled car that set a world land speed record on October 4, 1983, maintaining the title until September 25, 1997. Designed by John Ackroyd and driven by Richard Noble, this pioneering vehicle embarked on its journey with a modest budget of just £175.

On that historic day in 1983, Thrust2 achieved a remarkable peak speed of 650.88 mph, officially setting the record at 633.468 mph. The record-breaking event took place at the Black Rock Desert in Nevada, USA. The car is powered by a single Rolls-Royce Avon jet engine, originally from an English Electric Lightning fighter jet, and its design is reminiscent of the J79 turbojet-powered land speed record cars from the mid-1960s.

The record-setting attempt was covered by KTVN TV reporters Michael Hagerty and Gary Martin. When not in operation, Thrust2 was stored under a tarpaulin, and a propane torch was used to draw a straight line on the desert surface to guide the driver.

Thrust2's impressive record endured until 1997, when it was eclipsed by Richard Noble's subsequent project, ThrustSSC, which achieved a top speed of 1,228 km/h.

In 1991, Thrust2 was offered for sale at £90,000. A successful fundraising campaign, organized without any government support, ensured that the car remained in Britain. Today, both Thrust2 and its successor, ThrustSSC, are proudly displayed at the Coventry Transport Museum in Coventry, England.