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After watching a number of videos captured during the 2011 Japanese tsunami, one of the things I learned is that cars will often float, sometimes for a consider
by curtis 13y ago
After watching a number of videos captured during the 2011 Japanese tsunami, one of the things I learned is that cars will often float, sometimes for a considerable amount of time. So if I was in the market for an emergency tsunami-proof boat, I'd consider getting an old car and removing the engine, then filling the trunk and engine compartment with styrofoam or similar substance. Now you've got a car that will definitely float, and it should provide you a fair amount of protection from floating debris.
- lisper 13y agoThat is a really good idea, but I think the aim of the tsunamiball is more about process than product.
- jlgreco 13y agoThis idea and the name "Tsunamiball" have been registering as vaguely familiar to me and I just figured out why. The "Halliburton 'Survivaball'": http://theyesmen.org/agribusiness/halliburton/ http://theyesmen.org/agribusiness/halliburton/ ;)
- seeingfurther 13y agoThat's pretty genius. Would work in any flood prone area I imagine.
- lcedp 13y agoThe idea is fascinating. However, cars can float right until water comes in and then they will drug you under the water. Not a very safe behavior. I doubt styrofoam or empty bottles will provide enough force to compensate mass of a steel frame. Though if frame is enclosed and welded properly it will make a boat.
- HeyLaughingBoy 13y agoAt 10lbs per gallon, water is heavy. Remove the engine and transmission and fill the trunk and engine compartment with foam, and I'd be very very surprised if that car-boat couldn't stay afloat with a full load of passengers. Of course, if you're going to do that, why not just buy a cheap boat in the first place...