Everyone knows that the automotive industry as a branch has arisen for a long time. For all this time, engineers sought to create the perfect car that could satisfy the needs of the maximum number of people. And therefore, the fact of creating a car called an amphibious car is not at all surprising. Its purpose, varieties and features we will consider in this article.
Definition
First of all, let's find out what a brief description of this car is. From a technical point of view, an amphibious machine is a vehicle that is endowed with the ability to move equally well both on land and on the water surface. Simply put, the unit can drive on asphalt, on the ground, to ford rivers, etc. Everyone understands that the civil and military industries have always walked to some extent close by. As practice has shown, it was the military who initiated the creation of machines for which there would be no water obstacles.
Soviet era
If we consider the period when the Soviet Union existed, it is worth noting that then technological progress was observed, including the automotive industry was experiencing a stable rise. The USSR amphibian machines deserve special attention.
So, for example, the NAMI-055 car was designed on the basis of the Moskvich-410 car. In this amphibian, the hull was made all-metal, welded, equipped with a smooth bottom. All wheels were driving, and the suspensions themselves, if necessary, were removed into specially created niches. In water, the movement of transport became possible due to the presence of a propeller mounted on a retractable column. The speed of movement in the water of the car was 12.3 km / h.
In 1989, the NAMI-0281 multi-purpose amphibious machine was developed. Its main purpose was to deliver military units of rapid response to the place they fulfill their assigned tasks. The car body had two half-doors, behind which on two four-seat seats a combat crew of 8 people could be located. The power drive of the machine was installed in the aft. The highlight of the vehicle was an independent adjustable hydropneumatic suspension. It was she who allowed to change the ground clearance. The gearbox had two shafts. Through it, power was transmitted to the propeller drive and the differential was forced to stop. By dry coating, the car is capable of speeds up to 125 km / h.
Amazing instances
A modern amphibious machine is not only an army servant, but also a car for civilians with a wide range of capabilities. In particular, Sea Lion is an exclusive development that can reach speeds of up to 96 km / h on water and 201 km / h on land. As a matter of fact, this car was specially invented for fixing world records.
Gibbs Quadski is another new product released in 2012. It combines an ATV and a boat. The machine is capable of traveling both on land and in water at a speed of 72 km / h. She has a jet marine engine and a wheel retraction system.
Gibbs Aquada. An amazing car that made history. In 2004, it crossed the English Channel in just one hour, forty minutes and six seconds.
Rinspeed Splash. A distinctive feature of this machine can be considered the presence of a two-cylinder engine that operates on natural gas and does not cause any harm to the environment.
Do-it-yourself amphibian machines are created by engineer Michael Ryan. It was he who owned the creation called SeaRoader Lamborghini Countach. Its futuristic appearance is combined with engine power and excellent functionality.
Floating motor home
Such a car, which in its configuration is more like a bus, is called Terra Wind. The machine is manufactured by the American company Cool Amphibious Manufacturers International. The huge salon has a set of any kitchen equipment, as well as luxurious furniture, a home theater and even a jacuzzi. The interior is made of wood and leather. The camper travels on water at 13 km / h and 128 km / h on land. The cost of the car is about 1.2 million US dollars.
