Briton invades France in amphibious car

Previous cross-channel record smashed

By Lester Haines • Get more from this author

Posted in Science, 14th June 2004 12:25 GMT

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There is some consolation for distraught Brits today following England's crash-and-burn last night in Lisbon.

Entrepreneur Richard Branson this morning thundered across the English Channel from Dover to Calais aboard a Gibbs Aquada amphibious vehicle in just 90 minutes - thereby smashing the previous French record of six hours.

The Aquada - which boasts a 175 horsepower 2.5l V6 engine and "proprietary jet propulsion" system delivering one tonne of thrust on water - is reportedly capable of 100mph on land and 30mph in aquatic mode. It will set wannabe James Bonds back a cool £75,000.

Branson - who made the crossing suitably dressed in dinner jacket and bow tie - said: "We had to take something back from the French after last night and we are glad that we have exacted this revenge."

It is not reported whether Branson will now offer his services as penalty taker to the England squad, but we can only hope. ®