When I was a kid, I read an article in Popular Mechanics about a similar
device.
Rather than use a fifth wheel like these two examples use, it
employed a pair of
what looked like oversized dremel tools. These two
rear-facing shafts would
pivot down from under the rear of the car to an
angle of maybe 45 or so degrees
till the rear tires were suspended. Then
electric motor(s?) would spin the
shafts and power to the car to the side via
cogged metal wheels. Seems like
there was a taper to the cogs so the maximum
amount of surface engaged the
asphalt. Don't remember if someone was selling
them, or selling plans to make
them or what, but I've always thought it was a
cool idea. It would really come
in handy in New York City.
- David Booker
Long Island (but I work in Queens)
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=1399400155281054494#
Here's an
updated version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dbBLooyVYo
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