One absolute rare vehicle!

The Evinrude Rooney Lakester stands out as an inventive and adventurous vehicle concept that merges the thrill of driving on land with the excitement of boating. Designed by Brooks Stevens, an industrial design legend known for his work on iconic vehicles like the Studebaker Avanti and Packard Hawk, this 1970 model goes beyond traditional design boundaries. What truly fascinates me about the Lakester is its dual functionality. The Volkswagen-based chassis provides a reliable and familiar rear-wheel-drive setup on the road, while the detachable 14-foot fiberglass boat equipped with a 50-hp Evinrude outboard motor transforms the vehicle into a watercraft. This clever engineering feat allows for seamless transition between terrains, a feature that is rarely seen even today. From a personal perspective, owning a vehicle like the Lakester would be ideal for weekend adventures that combine off-road driving and boating excursions. The electric winch that pulls the boat back onto the chassis adds convenience and underscores the thoughtful design. Imagining a day that starts with dune buggy fun and ends with relaxing on the water perfectly captures the spirit of outdoor freedom. Despite its impressive concept and design, the Lakester never entered production, making it an exceptionally rare find for collectors and automotive enthusiasts alike. Its estimated price back in 1970 was around $2,500, which reflects its prototype status and unique features at the time. For those fascinated by automotive history and hybrid concepts, the Lakester represents a brilliant example of 1970s innovation and creativity. It inspires us to think beyond conventional vehicle categories and imagine new possibilities for multifunctional mobility. Whether you’re a fan of classic automotive design or intrigued by inventive vehicle ideas, the Evinrude Rooney Lakester remains a captivating story worth exploring.