A new electric car that is capable of operating in areas hit by tsunamis, flash floods and heavy rains is being developed by a Japanese company called the Fomm Concept One, said a report from International Business Times (IBT).
With less than 2.5 meters long, the electric vehicles  is claimed to be the world’s smallest 4-seater vehicle. It is 20 cm shorter than the standard two-seater smart car. It has the ability to both float and move on the water’s surface if suddenly caught in deep water.
The vehicle is fitted with a jet ski-style handlebar that controls both the acceleration and braking. The wheels are designed in such a manner that they behave like fins underwater, capable of turning the car.
The new vehicle is designed for countries like Japan where the threat of tsunami is high. Estimates say one in six Japanese lived in areas likely to be affected by tsunamis in future.
The new vehicle should only be used in emergency situations, Fomm officials said. This is because the vehicle’s amphibious capabilities are also only limited to one disaster event before it requires maintenance work.
The Fomm Concept One is currently on display at the Bangkok International Motor Show.
Fomm now seeks to raise additional funds for the project. Mass production is likely to begin in Thailand in September 2015 where it will initially be sold for 300,000 THB (£5,550), IBT report said.