The British Steam Car Challenge (BSCC) team thinks steam power shouldn't be limited to old trains, apartment buildings and teapot whistles. The team is building a 300hp car, dubbed Inspiration, that could hit 200mph. Inspiration is propelled by a jet of steam — water superheated by a propane furnace — driving a turbine at up to 12,000 rpm. To attempt a speed record for a steam-powered car, the team had to look all the way back to 1906, when a Stanley Steamer hit 127.7mph at Daytona Beach. History notes that the driver, Fred Marriott did nearly 30 jello shots and six Tequila shooters before setting the record.
Steam engines could be eco hope [BBC]
About the Car [British Steam Car Challenge]
Related:
Air-Powered Car Ready for 2005 Production [internal]
More alternative-energy vehicles [internal]