If we would tell people ten years ago that the cars of 2020 will be able to park themselves, direct us, and even drive themselves, we'd be called crazy, for sure. Yet, here we are in 2020, marveled by all the technological innovations we see. This should come as no surprise; the automotive world has always been a space in which people never were afraid to challenge the laws of physics and push all the boundaries in technology and design.
While some impressive innovations have made us safer and changed the automotive industry completely, some odd and crazy car inventions have failed. In this article, we've compiled a list of the most bizarre car inventions that you probably haven't heard about, because they failed. And we're glad they did. At least for most of them.
10 Ford Nucleon
What comes to your mind when people mention the 50s the 60s? Cold War? Nuclear weapons? Automakers during the nuclear age were getting inspired by the current situations and developed nuclear fusion engines in cars. One of those automakers is the Ford Motor Company, who even released a concept car in the late '50s known as the "Ford Nucleon." Fortunately, this invention failed because it was seen as dangerous and expensive. Nonetheless, you can still see the Ford Nucleon in the Dearborn Museum in Michigan.
9 Onboard Gramophones
This is one of the inventions that we're sad it failed. For the old heads and people who prefer listening to music from records rather than streaming devices, this type of car is too ideal. We're talking about Chrysler's onboard record player cars, known as "in-car phonographs," who were actually quite popular during that time. Because back in the 50s, there was no other way to listen to music, so Chrysler connected a full-blown record player to the car's speakers.
However, this invention failed, too, as it was too difficult to change the record from side A to B while driving. Plus, the needle would skip songs every time the car hit a bump. We can only thank Chrysler for at least trying.
8 Fifth Wheel For Parking
Two words can frustrate even the best drivers of all time: parallel parking. Sometimes people spend years, and they cannot parallel park, no matter how much space there is. But, automakers had a solution to this problem, particularly Cadillac. They created a fifth wheel that lowers from the trunk, so drivers can maneuver the car's rear end, while parking. It sounds great in theory, but it was horrible and impractical when used. Drivers preferred driving around until they can find a comfortable space for parking, then use the fifth wheel.
7 The In-Car Microwave
Do you feel like eating some popcorn while driving? Or you don't have time to stop anywhere to eat? You must be in the target audience for the in-car microwave. These microwaves have been produced for a while, using a plugin or a cigar lighter. Although you can still purchase one, we've never really seen a car equipped with it. Besides, it looks weird, and with all the fast-food chains, the in-car microwave seems outdated.
6 Steering Wheel Tray
Steering wheel portable trays are still available for purchase in many stores. It's a great concept, where you can have a full dinner on the go without having to stop at every McDonald's drive-through. But, there are many concerns when it comes to this invention—first, safety issues. And then, spilling your drink or flying your food all over the car, especially if you're driving and take a wrong turn. Sometimes the best choices are stopping along the way, and have a nice meal. After all, everyone needs a break from non-stop driving.
5 The Flying Car
Back in the '60s, every futurist predicted that by now we'd have flying cars. Oops. Unfortunately, we failed at that. But that doesn't mean no one experimented with the concept of flying cars. The Curtiss–Wright Air Car came pretty close to fulfill the prediction. Their vehicle powered by two aircraft engines could operate for a short period. But, such a car was never really marketed or used because of the loud noise and inadequate fuel consumption. Today, when most cars are trying to "go green," this invention would be looked down upon.
4 The Boat Car
Back in the 70s, the idea of creating a car that can be used as a boat and a car at the same time as trendy. Many designers, manufacturers, and engineers came together to create a vehicle that you can go fishing with, and stop to buy groceries on the way back home.
Companies like Porsche and Land Rover experimented with it and created a few cars that functioned as boats. Unfortunately, these boat cars failed because no one was buying them. Who knew the market was so small for a boat car?
3 Dog Sack
Nowadays, the solution is simple: if you don't have enough space, or get worried and bothered by dog hair in your car or apartment, don't get one. However, manufacturers thought that you can still own a dog, even if you're bothered by all these things.
That's why they created a dog sack, which you strap it onto the side of your car and place your dog there. We're so glad this invention failed. It's cruel and dangerous, especially if someone tried to overtake you too closely.
2 Cadillac Toilet
No, we're not kidding. In 1947, Cadillac developed a car that had a toilet in it. And the toilet was actually functional. With such innovation, you could drive over 6000 miles non-stop without having to stop anywhere.
But, while this invention worked for Cadillac, in other cars, it was a horrible experience. Issues with spraying, splashing, and smell were only the obvious ones. In the end, everyone decided it's much easier to stop at a gas station and use the toilet than squat in the backseats. Ugh.
1 Hamburger Fryer In The Exhaust
This is the most bizarre invention in the car industry, probably. As if the tray and in-car microwave weren't impractical enough, this company thought of using the heat that generates from the exhaust to cook burgers. Of course, they claim that the cooking section is separated from the main pipes, making burgers safe.
If you're a crazy burger fan, this may sound awesome. But do you know what's even more awesome? Cooking your burger at home, or stopping at Burger King for a ready-made one. But, definitely not cooking it on your exhaust.