Toyota breaks compressed air speed record, hits 80.3MPH with Ku:Rin

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Thankfully styled like the more dashing cousin in the typically awkward-looking compressed air car family, Toyota's Ku:Rin (meaning Air-Wheel) has smashed the speed record for cars powered by (not necessarily hot) air. Sure, measuring a svelte 0.8m across, there's certainly no space for the kids or the groceries, but it can reach a maximum speed of 80.3MPH. All that driving force is generated from compressed air which acts as the fuel, expanding and powering the single motor. Don't expect air compressors to replace those petrol pumps just yet -- the range for this streamlined beauty is a meager two miles. Take a look at NHK's report in More Coverage for redefining of "blown away."

Toyota breaks compressed air speed record, hits 80.3MPH with Ku:Rin originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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