Amphibious Luxury: WaterCar’s Dubai Debut
Est. Value: $135,000*
Manufacturer: WaterCar
Originating from Southern California, WaterCar has found a fervent following in Dubai. This company is renowned for creating and perfecting high-end amphibious vehicles. Founded in 1999 by Dave March, inspired by the 1960s Amphicar, WaterCar aimed to bring an unparalleled aquatic automotive experience.
The debut of their first commercial model, the Panther, in 2013 marked a significant milestone. Priced just over $135,000, the Panther quickly became a coveted item in Dubai, especially among the elite, including Sheik Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al-Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince, who owns six.
These vehicles transition seamlessly from land to water, retracting their wheels with a hydraulic suspension at speeds just below 10mph, completing the change in under fifteen seconds. Once transformed, they can cruise at aquatic speeds exceeding 60mph, embodying the essence of James Bond sophistication.
