AmphiCoach Vehicle-Vessel Launched

VALLETTA, Malta, March 20, 2009 - Javno.com - After six years of testing and development, the Amphicoach company is prepared to launch the first model of an amphibian bus. The AmphiCoach GTS-1, a design of Scottsman George Smith, was made in Malta. It was recently tested as the final prototype at the Marsaxlokk Bay, Malta.

The AmphiCoach GTS-1 can transport 50 passengers and can glide on fresh and seawater. It was constructed mostly from aluminium, because it needed to be light, but firm. A specially developed engine makes it achieve the speed of 8 knots on water, while purchasers have the option of choosing one of two diesel engines and four or two-wheel drives. The AmphiCoach GTS-1 includes supreme additional equipment with LCD screens, DVD players and automatic air-conditioning.

The amphicoach was entirely constructed in Malta and the company is currently in talks with several other firms, regarding a suitable manufacturing drive. Amphicoach believes they can produce up to 12 amphicoaches a year, while they expect an increase up to 50 units per year.

The AmphiCoach GTS-1 costs 280,000 pounds, while there are some ten orders for the new vehicle-vessel. An Australian company is considering purchasing 20 amphicoaches in a five-year period.

An unnamed Germany company has already ordered three amphicoaches, while one has been sold to Hungary. It seems that we might see am amphicoach in the Adriatic this summer, sailing from island to island.

Amphicoach, GTS-1, amphibian, bus, Malta, George Smith