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JustLuxe Retro 2006: The Amphibious Hydra Spyder

The Amphibious Hydra Spyder

Photo courtesy of C.A.M.I.

Luxury Cars: With new products and technology being unveiled daily, I know that a recantation of my upcoming assertion is likely to be forthcoming. We really cannot walk on water! However, thanks to the Cool Amphibious Manufacturers Incorporated (C.A.M.I.), driving across it is not a problem as long as the depth of water is around four feet. So far C.A.M.I. has produced several large unsinkable vehicles, which are Terra Wind and Ford Explorer variants, along with its small and sporty Hydra Spyder. Perhaps such extreme-opposite vehicle types are presented to prove that size really doesn't matter at all when designing these magnificent, dual-transmission amphibious vehicles. 

The Hydra Spyder's prototype features a 502 cubic-inch, fuel-injected engine, whereas the production units contain the Corvette LS2 Gen IV engine and a six-speed TKO high-performance manual transmission. It also has front-wheel drive, a four-wheel disc-brake system, 17-inch rims and wheels, and a stainless steel Sidewinder exhaust system. On the boat side, the hull is all aluminum, which doesn't rust, and the upper structure is made of fiberglass. A Berkley Marine Jet powers the Hydra Spyder, while a computerized air-ride retractable four-point front and rear suspension system keeps it afloat. All of the additional weight brought on the frame to function as a boat is at the bottom of the vehicle. So, its heaviness doesn't impact the vehicle's roadworthiness. Transitioning from land to water or vice versa is as simple as switching transmissions from the car's to the boat's. 

C.A.M.I's "car-boats" were featured on ABC's Good Morning America and numerous other TV programs, magazines and newspapers worldwide. Although these vehicles can be operated in saltwater, ocean voyages are not recommended. Visit the firm's website for specific pricing, a list of optional features, and to see the vehicles in production. 

James Rothaar

James has written content for Justluxe.com and other leading online luxury lifestyle magazines. Rothaar previously served as the senior-tenured staff writer for JustLuxe, having worked with the digital magazine since 2005. He resides in Jacksonville, Florida, and works as an independent marketing consultant and freelance writer and copywriter. He is the co-owner of Wild Owl Digital, a boutique mar...(Read More)

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