Electric-Car Concept From Japan Floats Like A Boat In Emergencies

There are electric cars and (a few) amphibious cars, but what about electric amphibious cars? Now this newest concept takes things a step further. The Fomm Concept One is an electric car that floats like a boat in emergencies .Japan-based Fomm believes this wacky plug-in car could be useful in such flood-prone .In non-disaster situations, the Concept One is propelled by two in-wheel electric motors, which produce 5 kilowatts (6.7 horsepower each).The estimated range from a single charge is 62 miles, though with a total of 15 horsepower, we're betting they're not very fast miles. Yet the Concept One can also use a water-jet generator to maneuver through flooded terrain, while its tires help keep it buoyant. However, the car's amphibious party trick is for emergencies only. It wasn't designed for regular soakings, and significant repairs are required after every swim.

The Concept One weighs just 1,014 pounds and measures just over 8.2 feet long--six inches shorter than a Smart For Two Electric Drive. Nonetheless Fomm claims its creation can seat four, with backseat access through minivan-like sliding doors. The interior is fairly basic. The gauges are contained in a single dashboard-mounted pod, and a yoke with hand controls for throttle and braking replaces the traditional steering wheel and pedals.