Volkswagen announced today a new training program that's meant to teach rescue dogs how to drive real vehicles. Over the last two months, the RSPCA and Volkswagen worked with three dogs, called Tulip, Jacob and Harry, and managed to teach them how to control the brakes, gears and even the steering wheel. The dogs, who sit upright on their haunches, were initially taught to steer using a wooden trolley pulled along with string. Mock car controls were then introduced before the dogs were trained to wear specially adapted safety harnesses and put behind the wheel of a 180PS four-wheel-drive Volkswagen Amarok. The animals then spent hours practicing their driving skills while sitting alongside a human instructor with access to dual controls.
To allow the dogs to drive the real Amarok pick-up, their front paws rest on the steering wheel and the gearstick while their rear paws rest on purpose-built extension levers which are then attached to the accelerator and brake pedals.
Understandably the speed of the rugged workhorse, known for its practical load space, smooth ride and off-road prowess has been limited for safety reasons.
Incredibly, this isn't even the first time dogs have been taught to drive. Back in 2012 an animal trainer taught two dogs very similar skills in his native New Zealand.
People wanting to see, or steer clear of the dog-driven pick-up should look out for a Reflex Silver Amarok with the number plate FR5T APR.
Volkswagen chose to make this announcement today, April Fool's Day.
