Autoblog

Gibbs Technologies, makers of vehicles like the Aquada seen above, has managed to snag tax breaks from both the state of Michigan and the city of Auburn Hills to open its world headquarters near Detroit, the U.S. capitol for automakers. While we're sure that Michigan's Oakland County is happy to see Gibbs' investment in the area and the additional jobs it'll bring along with it, one must wonder just how many $85,000 aquatic vehicles the company plans to sell to sustain itself. Though it's headquartering itself in the Detroit area, manufacturing may be done elsewhere. Michigan is still reportedly in the running, but we'd imagine a less seasonal climate may prove beneficial for the research, development and testing of its upcoming amphibious line of vehicles.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Our colleague Dan already reported that Gibbs Technologies wants to bring its amphibious car, the Aquada, to the U.S. market within the next couple of years. Now one of the domestic auto industry's hometown papers is reporting that Gibbs is looking for a U.S. manufacturing location, and Michigan is figuring prominently in that search.

Alan Gibbs has apparently met with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and looked at a variety of locations in Michigan and elsewhere. The major problem with Michigan as a site is the problem of testing an amphibious car in the winter time. Perhaps the MEDC can agree to throw in a free swimming pool if Gibbs builds his plant here. On the other hand, the inherently limited market for an amphibious car once you get past the novelty factor would seem to indicate that Michigan's scarce dollars would be invested more wisely elsewhere.

[Source: Detroit News]

Looking a bit like an MX-5 that got tired of land-bound living and returned to the sea, the Gibbs Aquada is nearly the automotive equivalent of a dolphin. It's sleek and fast in the drink, but the little amphibious roadster can still crawl out of the soup and go prowling around on four wheels. Once on dry land, the Aquada's no slouch, either; it's capable of running 100 plus mph.

Popular Mechanics managed to snag a ride in a stateside example and while messing about in boats, PM got some exciting news. No, we still don't know what's in Spam, but the Aquada is coming to the States to be sold with the Federal seal of safety approval. You may need to get a boater's license before you can take to the seas, but Gibbs contends that the Aquada will resist sinking mightily, even if swamped. That's comforting for something with such little freeboard, but don't worry, you'll bob like a cork after your wallet's been lightened at the dealer. The sale price in the US is expected to slot in around $100,000, a veritable fire sale compared to the $200,000 tab across the Atlantic. A good convertible will set you back at least $20,000, and an enjoyable runabout will cost at least as much, plus fuel, docking, and winter storage, to name a few. So $100,000 will likely be cheaper than owning a car and a nice little boat once the final tally is in. We wonder if Gibbs is going to try to circumvent shipping the cars, and just shove them off from the dock with an encouraging "off you go, watch out for rogue waves."

[Source: Popular Mechanics]

Click the image above to view pictures of EDAG's amphibious creation at work

Flooding has been a deadly problem since the dawn of civilization, and boats have traditionally been used as the main mode of transportation for rescue. The only problem is, flooded areas often have areas of shallow water and dry patches where a car or truck is often more effective. After a recent string of floods in Germany, EDAG has taken a swipe at this problem with its new amphibious rescue vehicle.

EDAG's new car-boat utilizes a catamaran approach, with a split hull for better shallow-water patrols. At the press of a button, caterpillar tracks can be dropped, turning the rescue boat turns into a land vehicle in a matter of seconds. The amphibious vehicle can seat up to ten, and it will be unveiled at the "Rettmobil" exhibition in Fulda, Germany. The German Lifeguard Association is currently evaluating whether or not the amphibious vehicle will be used in the future.

Although this two for-one vehicle was designed for German needs, we have a feeling that it would work just as well in the hands of the US National Guard or Coast Guard. If you want a boat and car in one, however, we don't think this thing would pass US crash-test regulations.

[Source: EDAG via World Car Fans]

Is the armored Mercedes-Benz S600 Guard not enough? How about a luxury tank?

This amphibious Russian combat reconnaissance/patrol vehicle was purchased by a Russian oligarch and retrofitted with a host of luxury equipment including a full leather interior with wood trim, plus night-vision, hi-fi stereo system, sat-nav and television with DVD player.

Being an amphibious vehicle, it can go in the water too, and has a periscope mounted to the roof to help the driver see where he's going and sonar to see what lies beneath. Get stuck on land? It's got extra wheels hidden underneath that can be deployed as needed. The thing ways weighs a few tons, and is powered by a 5.5-liter V8 diesel.

And here you thought the Hummer and G-wagon were the ultimate in luxury paramilitary vehicles. Park it next to your Aston Martin and you've got your own little James Bond flick goin' on.

(Follow the jump for more images.)

[Source: English Russia via Luxist]