Enthusiasts behind a British-built steam supercar will attempt to break a century-old world land speed record for steam-powered vehicles tomorrow afternoon.
The 25ft-long car – dubbed the ‘fastest kettle in the world’ – aims to go faster than 127mph – the speed reached by American Fred Marriott in a Stanley steam car in 1906 at the Daytona Beach Road Course.
The team will begin their attempt at 6am tomorrow morning in California.
Officials said the team needs seven miles of track to make the record attempt, which is why it can’t take place in the UK.
However the team has had to overcome sweltering heat in California, with temperatures reaching 40C by mid-morning.
The heat has resulted in numerous problems, including causing the car’s electrical components to overheat and liquid propane to vaporise.
Project manager Matt Candy said plentiful supplies of dry ice have been used, enabling them to cool the components without the need for using water.
But the Edwards Airforce Base has low altitude, meaning more oxygen for the car’s burners.
