Gibbs adds two-passenger Quadski XL to lineup

2014 models include larger sponsons and hood-mounted air scoops

The Gibbs Quadski, the world’s first high-speed sports amphibian, gets a new front-end appearance and a Quadski XL model added to its lineup for 2014.

Compared to the standard Quadski, the new Quadski XL, unveiled in June, offers seating for two, has 11.8 inches of additional wheelbase, is nearly a foot longer and offers increased storage capacity as well.

The Quadski XL’s longer wheelbase delivers a smoother, more comfortable ride on land and greater stability on water, according to Gibbs Sports Amphibians. Under-seat storage includes additional space for a second helmet and safety gear, supplementing the storage bin and glove box already available on the single-seat Quadski.

“The new Quadski XL expands the envelope of go-anywhere recreation with an even greater capacity for freedom, flexibility and fun,” noted Noel Lane, president and CEO of Gibbs Sports Amphibians. “Our dealers are excited about the addition of the XL to their high-speed amphibian lineup.” 

He points out that both 2014 Quadski models have larger sponsons (stationary rudders) integrated into their hulls to provide added stability and help improve overall marine handling.

In addition, the 2014 Quadski and Quadski XL each feature larger hood-mounted air scoops that boost engine cooling and overall performance, along with new, more resilient front bumper systems.

5-second transition

Both models have durable, lightweight composite hulls, utilize patented water-jet technology and are equipped with a 1.3-liter BMW Motorrad engine and transmission. The four-cylinder, water-cooled engine is considered the lightest power plant in its segment and features electronic fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts and dry-sump lubrication. Producing 140 horsepower, the engine enables Quadski and Quadski XL to reach speeds of 45 mph on both land and water.

“Our high-speed amphibians feature a unique retractable suspension system that provides a superb ride and nimble handling on land, and retracts in seconds after entering water,” Lane added. “It’s a patented design that allows Quadski to transition between the two environments in less than five seconds.

“Quadski attracted crowds at auto, boat and powersports shows throughout the U.S. last year. We expect to build on that success with the addition of our new Quadski XL — a two-seater that research indicates will be popular with an even greater number of prospective buyers. Our newest high-speed sports amphibians will go on sale at dealerships [in June].”

The Gibbs Quadski currently is available at dealerships throughout the U.S., including in Florida, California, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Maine, Minnesota, Washington, Virginia, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.

Built at a 54,000-square-foot assembly plant in Auburn Hills, Mich., the Quadski is available in four colors — red, yellow, silver and blue — and will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $41,125 for standard models and $47,650 for the all-new XL.

The Quadski XL has an overall length of 140.2 inches, compared to 128.3 inches for a standard Quadski. Its curb weight of 1,437 pounds is about 100 pounds heavier and its wheelbase of 82.3 inches is nearly a foot longer. 

“The Quadski is the result of millions of research dollars and years of development work in the U.S., the U.K. and New Zealand,” said Alan Gibbs, founder of Gibbs Technologies and Gibbs Sports Amphibians. “Quadski represents an entirely new form of transportation. It is the only sports amphibian of its kind in the world.”

Gibbs notes that his companies have more than 300 patents and patents pending on Gibbs technology and have invested more than $220 million in product and technology development.

“Bringing the Quadski to market in the U.S. over the past 18 months has been a long, uphill battle, but clearly worth the effort,” Gibbs adds. “We expect the Quadski to pave the way for a host of other Gibbs amphibians that are in our pipeline and designed for consumers, sports enthusiasts, law enforcement agencies and first responders in the years to come.”