Blind Land Speed Record achieved

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October 12, 2005 On Tuesday October 11th 2005 at Evington Aerodrome near York, Mike Newman rewrote his World Blind Land Speed Record, driving alone in a BMW M5. The 507hp M5 powered to an average speed of 167.32mph over a measured mile in both directions, being the Guinness criterion for the record. In the process, Mike hit a peak speed of 178.5mph. After breaking the record, Mike Newman said: "This is dedicated to the charity VISION 2020: The Right To Sight on World Sight Day. The aim of VISION 2020 is to eradicate the world of preventable and avoidable blindness by the year 2020."

He continued: "Not enough is done to help the visual impaired communities around the world. In many cases, increasing the levels of Vitamin A in a child’s diet or a simple cataract operation would transform a life. I hope this record draws increased attention to this very important global issue."

Mike Newman broke his existing record of 144.7mph (set in a Jaguar in August 2003 at Elvington Aerodrome) in a specially-engineered BMW M5. While the car is normally electronically limited to 155mph, BMW produced a one-off, derestricted car for the record attempt capable of a top speed of 205mph, given a longer distance than available at Elvington. Factory-standard Continental tyres ensured the M5 kept in contact with the runway at all times.

The record was made possible by state-of-the-art computers, communications and microSAT GPS equipment supplied by sponsors Scan Computers, Site Link and Datron Technologies while the project was managed and coordinated by mantado-pr.