Thrust 2: A Memory

Thrust 2, driven by Richard Noble, broke the world land speed record in 1983, reaching a speed of 650.88 mph. This book tells the inside story of the development of the car, including technical difficulties and overcoming crashes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2022
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Inspired by the awe-inspiring sight of RAF Lightning fighter interceptors soaring vertically into the sky at a staggering 50,000 feet per minute, as well as other remarkable British engineering and design achievements, Richard Noble set out on a mission to reclaim Britain's position as a global leader during the resurgence of national confidence in the 1980s. Determined to break the world land speed record, Noble envisioned a car that would surpass all expectations and push the boundaries of automotive technology.

Thrust 2, driven by the visionary Richard Noble, achieved the remarkable feat of breaking the world land speed record on October 4, 1983, in the vast expanse of the Black Rock desert in Nevada. Powered by a Rolls-Royce Avon turbo-jet engine, this extraordinary vehicle reached a staggering speed of 650.88 mph (1,047,49 km/h). It held the record for over three years, until September 25, 1987.

In this captivating book, Richard Noble takes readers on an intimate journey behind the scenes of the development of the car that defied the odds and conquered the world. The story unfolds from the initial sketches on the drawing board to the formidable technical challenges that lay ahead. From the intricate aerodynamics required to navigate at such high speeds to the daunting task of mounting an engine designed for jet fighter aircraft, the team faced numerous obstacles. However, their unwavering confidence and determination propelled them forward.

Despite the immense pressure and scrutiny, they overcame every setback, including a catastrophic crash that threatened to derail the project. Through sheer resilience and unwavering commitment, Richard Noble and his team persevered, pushing the boundaries of engineering and design to new heights.

This book is a testament to the indomitable spirit of innovation and collaboration. It includes unseen illustrations that provide a visual glimpse into the world-beating Thrust 2 project, offering a rare and insightful perspective into the minds of the visionary engineers and drivers who made it possible.

In conclusion, Richard Noble's unwavering pursuit of the world land speed record not only showcased Britain's engineering prowess but also inspired a generation of aspiring engineers and scientists. Thrust 2's legacy continues to inspire innovation and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of automotive technology.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 165 x 234 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398111103