Volkswagen is preparing a Jetta to have a crack at setting a new speed record at the famous Bonneville Salt Flats in August.
The Jetta will be powered by a modified version of Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0-litre turbocharged, direct injection four-cylinder engine that is being prepared by THR Manufacturing, based in Ventura, California.
Volkswagen is hoping to beat the existing Southern California Timing Association’s BGC/G class record of 335.503km/h.
In doing so it will showcase both the potential performance of the EA888 engine as well as the all-new Jetta’s exceptionally aerodynamic shape, which yields a drag coefficient of just 0.27.
“We want to underline the Jetta’s sporty credentials and get customers excited for the more performance-oriented Jetta GLI on the way,” North America CEO, Hinrich J. Woebcken, said.
To run at high speed on the salt, the Bonneville Jetta has been modified in many other ways from stock too.
The suspension has been lowered, special Salt Flat wheels and tires fitted, and a limited-slip differential added to aid traction.
The interior has been stripped and fitted with a full roll cage, racing seat and harness — plus a fire suppression system.
A pair of parachutes has also been fitted to help slow the car down.
CHECKOUT: More power for Golf GTI
CHECKOUT: The two men who saved VW
