newVideoPlayer("turbinevan_gizmodo.flv", 463, 387,"");This van has been retrofitted with a Rolls-Royce Nimbus helicopter jet turbine by Chris Krug, who should really be working for Tony Stark. The jet turbine has about 1,000 shaft horsepower at 2,100 RPM, which allows it to do 200 metres at 166kph in 7.14 seconds. Not bad for a Dodge Caravan, specially one that can ride with the normal combustion engine, then reveal the turbine flipping its rear window. The turbine exhaust doesn’t provide any thrust, however:
Han Solo: I’m captain of this ship. Chewie here tells me you’re lookin’ for passage to Burning Man.” Obi-wan Kenobi: Yes indeed, if it’s a fast ship. Han Solo: Fast ship? You’ve never heard of the Ford Econoline? Luke: “Is she fast?” Han Solo: “She’ll make point five past lightspeed. She may not look like much but she’s got it where it counts, kid. I’ve made a lot of special modifications myself.” Luke: “You mean that airbrushing on the side.” Han Solo: “Yeah, that’s what I mean.” Luke: “That doesn’t make a car go any faster.” [Chewie nods in agreement.] Han Solo: “Wait, I’m talking about for trippin’ balls. You guys want a ride?”
Bonus picture after the jump.
