As soon as upon a time, steam-powered vehicles have been a factor. Admittedly, that point got here and went a very long time in the past as a result of it is not precisely a sensible technique of propulsion. That does not imply it is not a captivating strategy to energy one thing, so when you could have a small steam engine at your disposal, why not drop it right into a traditional Land Rover?
That is precisely what Frank Rothwell determined to do. If that identify sounds acquainted, he raised a minimum of $1.5 million (£1.1 million) for Alzheimer’s analysis final 12 months by rowing throughout the Atlantic Ocean solo … at age 70. He is additionally sailed around the globe, together with the tough Northwest Passage so that you may say he is very acquainted with utilizing water as a way of transportation.
That brings us to his loopy 1967 Land Rover and sure, it makes use of a respectable steam engine. In line with DriveTribe, the thought for the swap got here to him after visiting a traction engine present the place he noticed some small steam engines. He ended up getting a small equipment based mostly on a 1910 Foden engine, put it collectively, then turned his consideration to the outdated Land Rover. After some tough measurements and calculations to see if the swap was even attainable, he discovered the size and weights have been truly fairly comparable. As such, the Frankensteam mission started.
Admittedly, the Land Rover is a tad slower than it was. Per the video, prime velocity is round 12 mph and people driving within the open-cockpit off-roader do get a bit oily. Additionally, this Land Rover is now not an off-roader – the mechanicals for the entrance differential have been sacrificed within the swap however who cares? This can be a freaking steam-powered Land Rover that runs on fireplace and water. A diesel-soaked rag and kindling wooden stoke the boiler for coal saved behind the seats. At full throttle the steam Rover makes a satisfying chug. There’s even a legit steam horn to warn others of your arrival. Eventual arrival, however an arrival nonetheless.
It would not make any sense, however that is the glory of it. Mix a wild thought with some engineering and fabrication abilities, and see the place it goes. On this case, it led to a steam-powered Land Rover. Who is aware of the place the following thought may result in.
