H1-Panther Story
Using the HUMVEE® Vehicle as a base, the H1-Panther is constructed out of high-strength aluminum which is much stronger than fiberglass. Historically amphibious vehicles that were jet-powered would clog and fail in debris-filled water. The new model needed to be powered by a prop capable of powering through the debris. It was a must that it was a 4x4 drive with adequate ground clearance for off-roading, yet still have a deep enough vee in the hull to manage rough water. It must be able to work in all climates, it needed to have an optional top and full doors with a good heater along with air conditioning as an option.
It was mandatory that the vehicle would fit in a 20-foot container so it could be shipped anywhere in the world. All this was a tall order considering most amphibious vehicles typically end up being poor driving cars and terrible performing boats due to all the engineering compromises that must be made to build a vehicle capable of driving on the water.
The WaterCar team was up for the challenge.
With 20+ years of experience and all the successes and failures behind them, this turned out to be by far the most challenging project the team has ever attempted.
The end product speaks for the skill and tenaciousness of the WaterCar team. Capable of highway speeds on land and thirty-five knots on water, the four-wheel-drive H1-Panther transitions between land and water in under 20 seconds. The body is constructed out of high-strength aluminum and is designed for operating in some of the harshest conditions. We use the most durable and strongest parts available. With its large stainless-steel prop capable of running in the dirtiest water to its low range 4 x 4 huge mud tires, it is still comfortable to be driven down the highway.
The H1-Panther is a true amphibious utility vehicle that can be used in the most brutal conditions. The H1-Panther is by far better than any other amphibious vehicle ever built to date.
