Aussies Drive EV Land Cruiser 7km Underwater, Set Records
A group of adventurous gearheads from Australia have made headlines by setting a new world record for driving a car underwater. The team took a specially modified Land Cruiser across the floor of Darwin Harbour, covering a distance of approximately 7 kilometers (4.5 miles). This incredible feat has captured the attention of car enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The team spent months preparing for this daring adventure. They used a 1978 Land Cruiser body and fitted it with a waterproof electric motor. To ensure buoyancy, the tires were filled with water, weighing a hefty 150 kilograms (375 pounds). While this may have put a strain on the EV powertrain, it did not deter the team from completing the journey in about 12 hours.
The journey began with the Land Cruiser splashing into the water via a boat ramp at 9:00 am local time on Saturday. The crew faced numerous challenges along the way, including the depth of the harbor, which reached up to 30 meters (almost 100 feet) in some places. Due to the severe pressure at those depths, each driver could only spend about 15 minutes at the helm. Additionally, the team had to contend with the presence of saltwater crocodiles and sharks, adding an extra element of danger to their already daring expedition.
Despite these obstacles, the team managed to overcome them with resourcefulness and determination. They encountered difficulties when the tires got stuck in silty conditions, requiring the use of flotation devices to lift the Land Cruiser out of the mire. A gas pipeline also hindered their progress. Originally planning to reach landfall by 4:00 pm, they faced a significant delay and emerged from the deep around 9:00 pm. Nevertheless, this delay does not diminish their accomplishment, as they successfully set two Guinness world records.
The project was self-funded, with one of the project managers acquiring the Land Cruiser for a mere $5,000 ($3,400 USD) from an Australian equivalent of Craigslist. While there is no mention of the horsepower or torque produced by the EV powertrain, it must have been a robust amount to overcome the challenges of driving through water at a depth of 100 feet. Although their average speed was approximately 0.375 mph, the significance lies in the audacity and determination displayed by the team.
In true Australian style, the team celebrated their achievement by capturing two barramundi fish along the way. The hero shot above shows one of the team members proudly holding up a barramundi fish. This moment encapsulates the spirit of adventure and triumph that defines this remarkable journey.
The story of these Aussie gearheads driving an EV Land Cruiser underwater has captivated people around the world. It showcases the ingenuity and determination of individuals who are willing to push boundaries and challenge conventional norms. This feat not only sets new records but also inspires others to dream big and pursue their own extraordinary adventures.
In conclusion, the team’s accomplishment of driving a car underwater for 7 kilometers is a testament to human resilience and innovation. It is a reminder that with determination and creativity, anything is possible. This extraordinary journey has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on all those who have followed their story.
