Egyptians have known about chariots since the Hyksos began their rule in the Nile valley around the 17th century BC. Later, they improved the carriage and created a model similar to the one in the photo. It is a symbol of wealth as it is made from 7 different types of wood, all of which do not grow in Egypt. In other words, this is a high-end “imported” car.

Early Egyptian vehicles.

And below is King Tut’s royal supercar. It carries leading technology with 6-spoke wheels (compared to 4 in the early days). The king had 2 large chariots used for ceremonial occasions, 1 smaller, elaborately decorated chariot, and 3 light chariots for daily use. What a magnificent collection.

King Tut’s car collection.

This car also belonged to King Tut. It is attached by a stake and a large yoke. The king will stand on the chariot to control two horses. The wheel is connected by a 2m long axle made of hard wood and the whole carriage can carry more than 100kg. The vehicle’s structure helps reduce vibrations during acceleration and deceleration. We currently do not know whether people raced chariots in Egypt, but the techniques used in making chariots were completely suitable for racing.

Wheels are a very important part of the carriage. They even have tires made from elastic wooden rings, suitable for different terrains. The axle of the wheel is lubricated with animal fat, making the movement easier and preventing the vehicle from quickly breaking down.

The wheel has a key to keep it and also facilitates the wheel changing process. It is calculated that the wheel can be replaced within 1 minute. The spokes are made from flexible wood and help reduce vibrations just like the shock absorbers in a modern car or motorbike.

Compared to chariots of other peoples such as Greece or Rome, Egyptian chariots were much more advanced in terms of reasonable design. They know how to combine different types of soft and hard wood, apply many rules in mathematics and physics to create a truly comfortable carriage for the user.