In his spare time, William Liddiard decided to give his car the ability to moonwalk. The automotive movement is only possible with the omnidirectional wheels Liddiard fitted. He says it’s a world first — most vehicles with similar abilities like forklifts have special wheels dedicated to moving this way. Liddiard says he can now make anything with wheels moonwalk…like a kickass Toyota Echo.
According to Liddiard, the tire/wheel assembly isn’t just for show. The invention is “designed to be used in all weather and road conditions,” bolted onto any existing wheels. And the tires themselves are like the tires you already have, with rubber, tracks, and grooves. Just imagine the look on your driving instructor’s stupid face if you literally slid sideways into a parking spot like a fresh DM when asked to parallel park .
Engineering-wise, that car has to handle a lot a force. To move like Michael, the apparatus is applying 24,000 pounds of torque directly onto the tires.
What the video above doesn’t show, however, is anything ready for production. These are prototype wheels showing a proof of concept. Liddiard is hoping that the demonstration is impressive enough that someone will want to partner with him on his invention.
“No-one knows about this invention. Please share/tell someone or forward this video to any company you think might want to license or partner with me to bring it to market. Thank-you.”
Well people know about it now Bill, better get those patents in order.
What do you think? Would you buy pairs of these tires and moonwalk sideways up a parking ramp? Because that’s what I would do. Let me know in the comments below.
Images: William Liddiard
