From Past into an Atomic Future – A story of Nuclear cars

A car running from a nuclear power source looks like a si-fi fantasy from James Bond movie. But, who thought a radioactive waste from a nuclear power plant can be transformed into a heap of massive energy. Well, it seems like the concept is futuristic enough but isn't this what science & innovation is all about! Although, many brainiacs disagrees to the fact and their scientific optimism has brought forth the fusion of nuclear power and the auto world.

During the 1950s and early 60s, the dawn of nuclear power was flattering all over the world with anticipation over the exciting prospects of nuclear energy. “Too cheap to meter” became the driving force to limit this enormous energy in a closed system in order to bring out something productive. It's cheap costing factor and safe electricity source encouraged many scientists and engineers round the world to shift consumer's interest towards atomic culture, a world of flying cars, and autonomous kitchen powered by clean energy.

Even before, few creators tried their hands in making nuclear-powered submarines and ships that led car designers to begin conceptualizing atomic vehicles. Looking after the process of such nuclear-powered concept cars, a consistent reaction goes inside once triggered and theoretically would not produce any harmful byproducts. Also, there is no need to refuel the vehicle at regular intervals.

But the fantasy soon faded. For a time being only, the idea got so much of hype in public attention promising them to see a rosy future on the horizon. On practical grounds, there were too many problems with the realities of nuclear power. Major drawbacks for which became:

- Small power plants which are not sufficient to attain a reaction

- Car containing capacity should be big enough to store weapons-grade atomic materials

- A nuclear-powered car would turn an accident site into a mini-Chernobyl

- Lack of proper shielding material to protect passengers from harmful radiations

Keeping in mind all the attempts and failures to manufacture a nuclear-powered car, hope is still alive in our minds beating the shortage of gasoline and increasing fuel consumption. Engines powered with lasers and Thorium salts have been suggested by some advanced automakers like Ford with no emission and runs 300,000 miles on 8 grams consumption of the nuclear content.

'Nuclear concept cars – the future of transportation'- it would be an amazing time to give a thought, at least once. Taking a trip back in time to when creativity was outmatched with the outlandish idea about producing nuclear-powered car concepts, few cars were produced close to meet the demands of the project “ATOMIC FUTURE”.

1. 1958 Arbel Symétric

The Arbel automobile company started in 1951 and quickly perished in the year 1959 under heavy debt manufactured a second version model, called the Arbel Symétric. Production of this unique "” (a 40-KW nuclear thermal generator using radioactive cartridges made of nuclear waste) powered car was a possible push effect of World War II tough on Europe to do more with less. But, the French government was less interested in entertaining the idea. Hence, the government did not approve the use of nuclear fuel and no development took place.

2. 1958 Ford Nucleon

It was during this honeymoon with nuclear energy in 1957, the Ford Motor Company unveiled the most ambitious project in their history called the 'Ford Nucleon'. This car of the future had a designed range of up to 5,000 miles without refueling. The rear section of the Nucleon was made up of twin booms, which were intended to carry a nuclear reactor and shielding. The design developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory utilized a reactor fueled and cooled by a molten fluoride/uranium salt (NaF-ZrF4-UF4) that operated at 1500 degrees F to create jet thrust. Even, the passenger compartment was pushed to the front of the car in order to provide maximum shielding from the nuclear pile in the back. After all efforts, Ford failed to invent lightweight shielding material that would allow the nucleon to be in its real speed and active mode. However, the project inspired Fallout video games to pervade the idea in gaming zone. Interestingly, you can also see the original model at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, MI.

3. 1958 Simca Fulgur

The Fulgur, developed by Simca in 1958, looks like a space-age ride with hidden wheels and the plastic bubble top. This another French design was given by Robert Opron, displayed for the first time at the 1959 Geneva Auto Show. It was also displayed at the New York Auto Show, and the 1961 Chicago Auto Show. It was to be atomic powered, voice controlled and guided by radar. Although, the car was never seriously considered for production.

4. 1957 Studebaker-Packard Astral

Another concept car, the Astral debuted in the year 1957 at the South Bend Art Center, was seen for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show. Although, this car didn't play fair in the auto market for its sci-fi styling. Amazingly, it was balanced on one wheel only, using gyroscope technology and it was said to hover over water. Protecting the occupants from radiation, unique protective energy curtain was equipped in the car. Facing the worse, it was commuted from auto shows to dealership events before finally finding a home along with its more practical brothers at the Petersen Auto Museum in Los Angeles, CA.

5. 1962 Ford Seattle-ite XXI

Ford's 1962 World Fair Showpiece, Ford Seattle-ite XXI stands out as one of the most visionary concept cars in history. This American technological concept car symbolized the future with some remarkable concepts, including interchangeable fuel cell power units, interactive computer navigation, interchangeable bodies, mapping and auto information systems, four driving and steering wheels. One technology that failed this concept of the car to become a reality was its power source, “compact nuclear propulsion devices.” But, its fascinating design grabbed the instant attention of the automakers and individual design houses for being a modular car representation for decades.