A Virginia-built motorsports project is taking shape in Martinsville as engineers and fabricators prepare a vehicle designed to challenge the 250-mile-per-hour land-speed barrier.
Known as the VA250 Car Project, the initiative is led by veteran engine builder Joey Arrington and is being constructed in Martinsville, highlighting Southside Virginia’s role in advanced manufacturing and performance engineering. Organizers plan to attempt the record March 24–26, 2026, at Space Florida, a historic aerospace facility.
The project is supported by the Virginia 250 Commission as part of the Commonwealth’s observance of America’s 250th anniversary, tying the record attempt to a broader celebration of Virginia’s industrial and educational legacy.
In addition to the build and record attempt, the VA250 Car Project includes an educational partnership with the University of Virginia’s Motorsports Club, an undergraduate-led Formula SAE. The club is made up of dedicated and passionate students who design, build, and race a formula-style racecar each year. Students will gain hands-on exposure to vehicle systems, data analysis and real-world performance engineering through direct involvement with the project.
“This effort shows what Virginia can produce when experience, education and innovation come together,” Arrington said.
After the record attempt, the vehicle is expected to tour Virginia as part of the VA250 celebration, serving as a rolling demonstration of Virginia-based engineering and workforce development.
Additional information is available at https://va250carproject.com.
