When the amphibious Rodedawg (www.rodedawg.com) bursts onto the

U.S. scene early next year, it will set tails wagging among the

off-road crowd. Scheduled for U.S. approval for off-road use by

year’s end, the Rodedawg is certain to attract enthusiasts who want

to run with the big “dawgs” while spending only half the cost of a

Hummer.
 
With a four-cylinder, 2.77 liter Isuzu 4JB1 turbocharged diesel

engine, the amphibious Rodedawg 4x4 will be offered in three

models: a convertible, a truck, and an SUV. Each model can be

custom fitted to the customer’s specifications, although standard

models come equipped with plush interiors and features designed for

a comfortable ride in even the most rugged terrain.

For water travel, the Rodedawg is driven by a rear propeller

attached to the PTO shaft. During amphibious operation, the vehicle

can reach six to eight miles per hour and has a turning diameter of

66 feet. On land, the Rodedawg can handle a 44 percent incline with

ease.

Currently available in Mexico and Nicaragua, the Rodedawg is the

vision of Luis Pallais, Commercial Attaché to the Nicaraguan Consul

General’s Office in San Francisco, and an automotive industry

veteran. After catching a glimpse in a Beijing military warehouse

of the amphibious off-road vehicle that would later become the

Rodedawg, Pallais was smitten.

 “I never saw a vehicle that caught my eye as much as this one did,

and frankly, I fell in love with it,” he said. “I immediately knew

that its appeal and functionality was broad enough to engage both

governments and consumers.”

Rodedawg International Industries, Inc., which owns the trademark

right to the brand name “Rodedawg” in many countries around the

globe, is currently in negotiations with the Dominican Republic

National Police and Nicaragua’s armed forces to purchase the

amphibious vehicle. He foresees marketing the vehicle to U.S.

federal and state agencies, as well as to the military. “In the

aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the Rodedawg would have been a

perfect fit for search and rescue operations,” said Pallais.

“Pre-positioning Rodedawgs in the vicinity of potential disaster

areas would save valuable time and translate into saving lives.”

But the Rodedawg goes beyond utilitarian appeal. It’s a sure bet

that, in early 2007, American consumers will be Rodedawgin’ over

mountains and through rivers. With fuel efficiency rated at 25

miles per gallon and a sticker price of just $49,000, the Rodedawg

will jump over the competition to become leader of the pack. “As a

recreational vehicle for boating, hunting, fishing, or simply

exploring, the Rodedawg is unparalleled,” said Pallais.