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The world's fastest amphibious supercar - capable of reaching an incredible 180mph - has gone on sale for the first time.
Engineer Marc Witt created the unique car-boat hybrid, named the ‘Sea Lion’, after dreaming of building a sports car which he could take for a cruise on the open seas.
What a ride: The unique 'Sea Lion' amphibious sports car in action. Photo credit: SWNSDesigned using CAD software, the Sea Lion is entirely original and borrows no structural parts from other road cars.
The Mazda-powered one-off model is capable of 180mph on the road, although admittedly it’s a little slower when it takes to water.
In seconds, the Sea Lion can be converted from sports car into a boat thanks to some clever engineering.
The wheels are lifted to become level with the rest of the watertight bodywork and the front splitter is raised to act as the front of the hull.
There are no details on the vessel’s sea speed but footage shows the machine cruising impressively around a US harbour.
Marc Witt wanted to build a sports car which was capable on the road and in the sea. Photo credit: SWNSThe Sea Lion will set you back £160,000 and is available through California-based prestige car dealer Fantasy Junction.
Speaking about the six-year project, Mr Witt said: "Building Sea Lion has been an enjoyable exploration. I have provided the basic architecture for the car and resolved every conflicting interaction between Car and Boat.
“When the project began in 2006, the top water speed was 45 mph and the top land speed was 125 mph.
[Related story: Family wake to find car in swimming pool]
“Today, the land speed remains unchanged, but the water challenge has risen to 60 mph.
“Sea Lion is currently configured to be World’s Fastest Amphibious 'land speed' vehicle. The transaxle is geared for speeds in the 180 mph range.”
The car enthusiast admitted the water speed is limited by the car’s engine but added he is happy to work with the next owner to improve this.
