A NEW record for the fastest Channel crossing by an amphibious vehicle has been established today.

The previous record, set by Sir Richard Branson last summer was one hour 40 minutes and six seconds, using a Gibbs Aquada.

Nick Fox set off from Dover this afternoon in an amphibious rib called Sealegs, and landed in France 43 minutes and 12 seconds later. On board with him were Maurice Bryham, from the craft's designers, and Hugo Andreae, editor of the Motor Boat and Yachting magazine.

Built in New Zealand, Sealegs looks more like a boat than a car, and is equipped with an inboard engine to drive the rear wheels on land, and the latest Evinrude ETEC outboard motor for its on-water activity.

"Sealegs is basically a high quality 5.6 metre Rigid Inflatable boat with three inbuilt wheels which can be retracted in a similar way to those of an aeroplane when the boat takes to the water," said Nick.

"The advantage is that the craft only needs a single person to launch and retrieve it and it is capable of travelling short distances on land at up to six miles an hour, while achieving a comfortable 35 knots at sea.

"We have tested the vehicle extensively and it is extremely reliable and easy to handle. This is a thoroughly sea worthy craft which is designed around a regular RIB.

"The on-land capability has been developed to enable owners to drive up to the boat house or boat park without any outside assistance, while the launch process is seamless from land to water.

"The boats are now available in the UK and we are certain they will become as popular as they are in New Zealand."