In August I did something I’m still not entirely sure has sunk in. I officially became an FIA Land Speed Record holder, as part of the JCB Hydromax Team. 🏁

Being part of the engineering team behind this project has been pretty surreal. From long days of problem-solving and testing to finally seeing the car run across the salt at Bonneville, it’s been one of those projects that reminds you exactly why you love engineering.

I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some incredibly talented engineers from three brilliant companies, and I’ve learned a huge amount along the way — both technically and personally.

To finish a year of hard work with not one, but two FIA records on the Bonneville salt flats was a pretty special way to wrap things up. 🧂🏎️

And, perhaps best of all, I got to do it alongside my older brother Adam Phelps (F 04-09). Having spent the last 10 years both working in motorsport, this was the first time our careers have brought us onto the same engineering team. Getting to work together on a project like this — and then share the experience of Bonneville — made it even more special.

Very proud of what we achieved, very grateful for the people who made it happen, and still slightly amazed that “going to Bonneville” is now something I can put on my CV. 😅

What a team. What a project. What an experience. 🏁'

Charlotte Phelps (K 07-12)

Visit Charlotte's website; Vivace Motorsport: Motorsport Engineering