This Rescue Jeep From The Philippines Is Absolutely Awesome

The Inquirer website recently shared about this new awesome jeep called TOAD – and it is being touted as “the country’s future in mobility and transport as a rescue and emergency response.”

Created by inventors from the Batangas State University in Batangas, Philippines, TOAD actually stands for Tactical Operative Amphibious Drive. This is the “first of its kind to be funded by the Philippine government,” according to the developers.

The vehicle is powered by two four-stroke gasoline-fed engines. Its 22-horsepower engine performs extremely well for land navigation while it utilizes 15-hp unit for water navigation.

Photo credit: Inquirer

Photo credit: Inquirer

On the ground, the rescue jeep has an average speed of 60 km per hour. In water, it can churn out up to 60 knots with the use of its mechanically adjustable outrigger, ensuring its stability. It is likewise equipped with GPS (global positioning system) technology which allows users to easily track locations.

Dr. Tirso Ronquillo, BatStateU president and project leader, said “anyone who can drive an owner-type jeep can drive [TOAD].”

The vehicle has a stainless steel and aluminum body. It is primarily created for use by local governments as a rescue transport especially during floods. Compared with other amphibious vehicles, TOAD is much cheaper in price.

The project was cofounded by the university along with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Together, they managed to have Php 1.4 million (roughly US$ 29,400). TOAD was developed by Ronquillo and his team from August 2014 to December 2015.

Alexander Madrigal, DOST director in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) said:

“We are lucky to have this [vehicle, but] a challenge now is its mass production.”

TOAD will soon be displayed at the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Natural Resources Research and Development office in Laguna this coming March 6, 2016 just in time for the visit of Philippine President Benigno Aquino III.

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