Coventry assists steam LSR project

The world record for a steam powered vehicle stands at 204kph and was set in 1906, making it one of the longest-held records ever. In 1985, an attempt was made in the USA which reached 233kph. Prof Bowsher is seeking to break both the world record and the US figure by reaching 200mph (322kph). His team will attempt the world record in South Africa next year and then plans to take the vehicle to Bonneville to attack the US record.

Prof Bowsher is using CU's high-technology laser cutting and welding facilities, said: "By using the expertise of staff within the university's School of Engineering and the excellent facilities they have, we've been able to start constructing the full-size prototype. The five-axis milling machine in the University's Advanced Digitising & Modelling laboratory has already been used to create a quarter-scale model."

Last year Prof Bowsher was conferred with an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Technology by Coventry University for his outstanding services in the field of engineering design.