Frequently Asked Questions
We hope that most questions have been answered on this web site, if you have any others please feel free to contact us, some common FAQ: -
1. How easy is it to register an amphibian in the UK?
You will not be able to use your amphibian in the UK unless it complies with section 58(1) of the Road Traffic Act 1988 by virtue of the Motor Vehicles (Approval) regulations 2001 this is more commonly referred to as SVA. Always ask to see an SVA certificate prior to placing an order, all 4wd Duttons whether made for the domestic market or export comply with SVA. Please ask if you need details of insurance companies for the UK.
2. Does an amphibian have to comply with any regulations for use on water in the UK?
Non-tidal river authorities require that your car complies with the UK Boat Safety Scheme, but quite frankly our experience over the last 9 years shows that you are more likely to be stopped out of interest than be asked for any documents. If required we can supply your Dutton complying with the Boat Safety Scheme regulations (there is a small charge for this). In any case to cover yourself (and to make it easier if you ever sell the car) you should buy a craft that can comply if required.
3. What are your delivery times?
3-4 months depending on specification.
4. Should I always have a water and road test before ordering a car?
Most definitely, if a company will not offer a test there might be something that they don't want you to find out about the car until it's too late, also it is important to visit the factory to see cars being built so you can see that cars have actually been sold. You should be wary about buying one of the first of a new model as you could end up being an unpaid test pilot if the product has not been fully developed.
5. What maintenance do I have to do?
Unlike steel or aluminium amphibians the Dutton does not require a "washdown" every time it comes out of the water. The only maintenance (other than normal" car" work [changing oil/water filters etc]) we recommend is that every year the brake pads/shoes are changed (even if not worn) and that any scratches on the suspension/axles are cleaned up and re-painted.
6. Do you give out owner info?
No, we guarantee complete privacy and never divulge customer info.
7. Are there any used Duttons for sale?
We are enthusiastic buyers and sellers of used Duttons and offer full servicing facilities. See “New and used stock Duttons” section.
8. Can I visit the factory to see my car being built?
Yes we actively encourage customers to come down and examine the build-up and take photos.
9. One engine or two?
Some people have commented that it might be easier if an amphibian had an outboard motor or even worse another engine stuck on the back. Firstly it would not by definition even be an amphibian and secondly the whole point of an amphibian is that it uses just one engine to propel it on both land and sea and that the transition from land to water is seamless. Having to carry around the extra weight of a second engine in the back is a definite no no. And don't forget that the extra engine also adds a hidden additional £3000 to the price! Who ever heard of an animal with two hearts?
10. Where can I go with my Dutton?
You can go virtually anywhere on the UK river/canal system and most lakes and anywhere in the sea.
You might be amazed at the number of slipways there are dotted around the UK. The vast majority are not easily seen from the road so many go unnoticed until you are actually on the water. 2 useful books available direct from the publishers: - 200 Inland slips £4.95 800+ Coastal slips £6.95 Opus Books 01380 871354 (cards taken) opus@dmac.co.uk or goto www.boatlaunch.co.uk
11. Petrol or diesel?
Like body colour this is a personal choice, there is no difference in vehicle speed between petrol or diesel but do remember that diesel engines are heavier, more expensive, noisier, smellier and when they go wrong will require expensive specialized help. In the UK diesel is already more expensive than petrol and next year "red" untaxed diesel will be banned throughout the EU.