New engine for new amphibious crossing attempt
A new attempt at setting the record for the fastest crossing of the Cook Strait in an amphibious vehicle has been
scheduled for Tuesday, this time with a brand new engine.
Engine manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), in keeping with its customer first policy, have this evening
delivered a new Evinrude engine to amphibious vehicle maker Sealegs.
"It's unfortunate that the engine failed, particularly so close to the end of the crossing," said BRP Australia's
marketing manager, Duncan Knight. "But we were keen to ensure that a new engine be delivered as soon as possible so that
the crossing could be reattempted."
Although they were unaware of Sealegs' intentions to attempt the crossing today, Mr Knight said there was no obvious
reason for the engine's failure.
"As soon as we heard of the engine's failure a replacement engine was loaded onto a truck and driven from Auckland to
Wellington. We also flew a sales manager and an after sales manager from Auckland to Wellington to fit the new engine."
BRP designs, manufactures, distributes and markets a range of recreational product, including Sea-Doo watercraft and
sport boats, Johnson and Evinrude outboard engines and Can-Am all-terrain vehicles.
Mr Knight said the crossing had actually been completed on two previous occasions to check the safety aspects of the
journey, so the aim of today's attempt today was to put the crossing on record formally. He is confident the vehicle's
next attempt will be a success.
"In December last year, Sealegs set a world record for the fastest water speed in an amphibious vehicle in Sydney
Harbour using an Evinrude engine and in 2005 broke Sir Richard Branson's world record for crossing the English channel
on an amphibious vehicle, so we know they've got what it takes," he said.
Mr Knight said BRP would also have a technician on hand to tackle any unforeseen problems.
"We have a great relationship with Sealegs and wish them all the best for their reattempt at the crossing on Tuesday."
ENDS