This build is about simplicity.
You may have heard the expression keep things simple stupid. This amphibian car project by PeterSripol can be found on YouTube. The design and construction are simple, which could be why it works so well.
works well refers to the basic idea of an amphibious vehicle that can be used on land or water. This machine, um, is not fast, and it isn’t even road-legal. It doesn’t have doors, interiors, roofs, turn signals or brakes. It does have a steering wheel that controls two of its front wheels, while the two at the back are driven by a gasoline engine. It seems to have a speed similar to a small jogger at full throttle but its tires are able to carry it over the ground easily.
The same five-horsepower engine which drives the wheels also turns the propeller in the water. It is equipped with a gearing system that allows it to spin at a slow speed, but it still moves forward. The drive is not exciting, but it’s still fun. This is the true joy of driving an amphibious vehicle, and it seems to do the transition smoothly.
This is what makes it so amazing. It is essentially a simple steel frame that attaches to the bottom and sides of an aluminum jonboat. The built-in benches serve as wheel arches. The boat has large go-kart tires that allow the prop to turn safely without hitting the ground. Additionally, the wheels and prop can be driven from the same chain so they both turn simultaneously. The prop is protected and there is always propulsion, regardless of how deep the water gets. This crazy idea was possible with a little welding and sealing of the boat. Simple things are the best.
It’s possible that this is not the end of the project. The clip ends with the suggestion that the idea could be re-examined with a larger budget and more electric power. Given how electricity and water don’t always get along, we aren’t certain about the last bit. We are keen to see simpler solutions to complex ideas.