Operator of Large Banana Transport Stopped in Montana

At The Drive, we report on a lot of significant news. You know, the information that keeps you informed about the auto industry and car enthusiast culture. However, sometimes we mix it up. There are moments when we indulge in humorous car-related topics just for the fun of it. This is one of those moments. Recently, an enormous banana was stopped by authorities in Montana, and as the Cowboy State Daily noted, it wasn’t the first occurrence.

The Montana State Police reported that Steve Braithwaite, the driver of the giant banana car, was pulled over near Billings due to a part of his license plate being obscured. He did not receive a citation. Notably, the plate reads “SPLIT.”

“We’ve apprehended speeders, distracted drivers, and a few odd vehicles… but this one undoubtedly stands out.
The Big Banana Car was stopped while cruising near Billings today. Though it may be enticing, traffic regulations still apply to fruit. 😎 🍌
Safe travels, Montana,” stated the Montana State Police on their Facebook page.

As the report details, Braithwaite has been pulled over hundreds of times during the decade he’s been driving his banana car around the nation. In fact, he believes that in the early years of his ownership, he was among the most frequently stopped drivers in America.

“Driving in a banana and seeing all the smiles and waves from people affects me. It really creates something wonderful,” he shared with the outlet.

He even claims to have been pulled over once for “peeling out,” which was clearly a joke.

Another report indicates that Braithwaite started constructing the fiberglass banana in 2008 and completed it in 2011. It’s based on a 1993 Ford F-150 and measures approximately 23 feet from end to end.

Keep on keeping on, Steve.

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As the deputy editor, Jerry leverages a decade of experience in the industry and a lifelong passion for motorsports to steer The Drive’s coverage, both short- and long-term.


**Driver of Giant Banana Vehicle Stopped by Authorities in Montana**

In an intriguing episode that has caught the eye of both local inhabitants and social media enthusiasts, a motorist operating an oversized banana-shaped automobile was halted by police in Montana. The incident took place on a bright afternoon, drawing a gathering of spectators who were entertained by the unusual sight.

The vehicle, which features a giant banana design, serves as part of a marketing campaign for a local fruit business. It was created to draw attention and promote healthy eating habits within the community. However, its large dimensions raised concerns regarding safety and adherence to state vehicle guidelines.

As per the Montana Highway Patrol, the driver was stopped for breaching several traffic codes, including improper vehicle size and absence of visible identification markings. Officials remarked that although the vehicle was visually striking, it could pose dangers on the roadway due to its size and the challenges it presents on narrow streets.

The driver, who remained upbeat throughout the interaction, clarified that the automobile was meant for community functions and parades, with the goal of encouraging children to consume more fruits and vegetables. Despite the playful essence of the vehicle, law enforcement underscored the significance of following traffic laws to guarantee the safety of all road users.

After a short discussion, the driver received a warning and was urged to ensure that the vehicle complied with all required legal standards before returning to the road. The encounter ended without any fines, allowing the driver to resume their journey, albeit with a more cautious mindset.

The oversized banana vehicle has since become a popular topic in local cafes and online discussion boards, with numerous residents expressing their joy over the whimsical nature of the promotional endeavor. It highlights the delicate balance between innovative marketing and the essential need to follow regulations that ensure safety on public roads.

As this story continues to circulate, it emphasizes the unique and often amusing facets of life in Montana, where the unexpected can transform an ordinary day into an unforgettable experience. The operator of the oversized banana vehicle has promised to return to the roads, this time with all recommended safety measures in place, ensuring that their mission to advocate for healthy eating can persist without further incidents.