How to Make a Balloon Powered Car

When it comes to concept cars, no idea is too wild to give it a try. With fuel prices topping $4 a gallon, alternative-powered cars are a real necessity. Here's how to make a balloon-powered vehicle. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to make a full-scale model of this balloon-powered car that will get you from point to point. If you fail, you will be disavowed. This article will self-destruct in 60 seconds. If all else fails, consult "Red Green."

Things You'll Need

• Chassis
• Wheel assembly for front and rear
• Bellows
• Weather balloon
• Duct tape

Instructions

1. Find a chassis and wheel assembly. You might find something at your local junk yard, or you can try using an old pedal boat. Attach a wheel assembly to your chosen chassis. The lighter the chassis and wheel assembly, the more likely your balloon-powered car will be to work properly. Be sure to lubricate your wheel assembly.

2. Attach a bellows to the mouth of a weather balloon with duct tape, with the opening of the balloon facing the rear of the vehicle. This is so you can refill easily.

3. Fill the weather balloon to capacity.

4. Release air from the balloon to make your vehicle move. Refill with the bellows. When you are too tired to work the bellows, use the quarters to call for a ride.