Amphibious bus begins operation

The world's first amphibious coach has been launched in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, thanks to Scotsman George Smith. The Amphicoach, which has seats for 50 passengers, allows bus passengers to take to the waves. The vehicle drives like a traditional coach until it reaches water, where its makers say it exhibits 'astonishing' sailing abilities. Its hull is made from 6mm marine-grade aluminium and it is powered in the water by a jet-drive unit. The coach's wheels are retracted into the hull to reduce drag and allows it to reach speeds of up to 8 knots.


The world's first amphibious coach travels in the water in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, in this undated picture released by Splash News.