Gibbs launches Phibian and Humdinga II amphitrucks

Automobiles come in all shapes and forms, designed for practical purposes and simply to make heads turn. So versatile is the concept of an automobile that with the proper know-how and technology, we’re able to design vehicles that are a far cry from the cars of old. But, what happens when you combine practicality with something that’s sure to make heads turn?

Gibbs unveils two Amphitrucks

If you’re a fan of the movies, you’ve no doubt seen vehicles capable of operating on land and in water. Rugged and versatile, these amphibious automobiles make for a great choice when conducting search and rescue missions and military operations. Mostly relegated to use by the military and other government agencies, amphibious vehicles can now be availed of by the public. Gibbs Technologies, a Detroit-based company that produces aquatic vehicles, has launched two high-speed ‘amphitrucks’ called the Humdinga II and Phibian. The strange looking vehicles are guaranteed to make people notice with their retractable wheels and capabilities. They’re perfect for folks who love all things rugged and innovative and we’re sure that the two new trucks will be a hit among macho men.

The Phibian is built out of carbon fiber and can attain highway speeds when on land owing to twin turbo diesel engines. When it hits the water, dual jet drives are activated and the wheels are retracted. All this can be achieved with just the touch of a button, taking about ten seconds for it to turn into an amphibious vehicle. When in water, it can reach a speed of more than 30 mph.

The 4WD Phibian is pretty large having a capacity of holding 12 passengers and three crew members. If configured for cargo carrying, it can hold about 3,307 pounds of payload. While the amphitruck is intended for use in rescue and military missions, we’re hoping it can be bought for personal use too.

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Gibbs unveils two Amphitrucks

Gibbs Technologies has announced the availability of its Phibian and Humdinga II amphibious trucks

The 4WD Humdinga II, meanwhile, is smaller than the Phibian and is better suited for a rapid response role or light duty patrol in areas that are rugged and remote. It can hold five to seven passengers and when needed for cargo carrying, can manage 1,653 pounds of payload. It operates on a supercharged 350 hp V8 gas engine and like the Phibian, uses dual jet drives when needed in water.

The two vehicles can be customized according to requirement. For now, the company is considering factory-installed components for the Phibian like a rear radar arch, a canvas T-top over the cockpit with an extended canvas over the cargo area, a fully-enclosed stand-up cabin, tailgate and winch and US Coast Guard-required equipment that passengers can use.

Gibbs Technologies has been developing high speed amphibian technology since 1997 with an investment of over $200 million. The technology is versatile and can be applied to amphibious vehicles of sizes and weights ranging from 800 pounds to about 10 tons. While the Humdinga II and the Phibian are the two latest vehicles to be launched, the company already has the Aquada and Quadski to add to its reputation.

Via: Gizmag / Prnewswire