FAQ (Frequently asked questions)
What
is new and revolutionary about the Rinspeed Splash?
The Rinspeed Splash is the first and only sports car in the world which can
drive, swim and also fly over water.
How was the idea of
the Rinspeed Splash created?
The ultimate dream of most young and also elder people is to own a vehicle
which allows (almost) unlimited mobility. We were told many times about these
dreams and visions. And now we have tried to convert them into reality. A
dream comes true.
How
does the water propulsion of the Rinspeed Splash function?
The Rinspeed Splash features an off centre mounted stern drive which is
lowered (tilted) hydraulically. Following the water depth the stern drive will
be lowered (tilted) accordingly. The propeller is being driven by the
vehicle's engine thru a switchable and controllable transfer gearbox.
Can the
Rinspeed Splash sink?
The Rinspeed Splash features two independent bilge pump systems and floating
chambers. But even the seemingly unsinkable Titanic did not perform to its
job.
How does the
wing system and the uplifting function?
All elements as the rear hatch, the two lateral wings, the rear wing and the
stern drive are activated hydraulically from the cockpit. The hydrofoils and
their wing system allow an ascend of the vehicle from the swimming to a flying
condition. The relatively small resistance in the water then allows a much
higher speed than of a normal boat.
How fast is the
Rinspeed Splash?
The top speeds achieved are approximately 200 km/h (125 mph) on the road, 50
km/h (32 mph) on the water and 80 km/h (50 mph) flying over the water.
What fuel does the Rinspeed Splash
use?
The Rinspeed Splash runs on natural gas, but also features an additional
gasoline tank. The natural gas tank made of composite material is installed
crosswise behind the driver and passenger seats. The fueling is being effected
from the left side behind the drivers seat right at the air intake to the
coolers.
What engine is
installed in the Rinspeed Splash?
The Rinspeed Splash is powered by a 750 ccm 2-cylinder 4-cycle engine from
Weber Motor (Germany) which is
primarily used in PWC's (Personal Water Craft) and snowmobiles made by
Polaris (USA). The main features are extremely small dimensions, coupled with
a light weight and a high power output.
Will the Rinspeed Splash
be built in series?
This is not yet determined at this time. However, it is unlikely.
What is needed to build
the Rinspeed Splash?
In the Rinspeed Splash a total of approximately:
- 10'000 man hours
- 400'000 kilometers flown on airplanes
- 20'000 kilometers driven in automobiles
have been and will be
invested. The project was started already in March 2003.
What is the cost of the Rinspeed Splash?
There is no price for the Rinspeed Splash. It is not for sale.
Can I ever drive the
Rinspeed Splash myself?
Unfortunately, no. A special training is required and the vehicle is very
valuable and therefore not available to the public.
What activities
are planed with the Rinspeed Splash?
After the world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show 2004 (March 4th thru 14th)
and many other shows and events, a world record attempt over the English
channel between France and England is envisioned for the spring of 2005.
However, no details are set yet.