Strange locomotion achieves advanced movement in 3-dimensions by manipulating hyperdimensional extensions of 3-dimensional objects. Strange locomotion can, for instance, achieve incredible speeds at lower energy costs and avoid sensory detection. It is essential for interstellar travel.

It is equivalent to using a motor in 3-dimensions for a 2-dimensional object. For example, imagine a completely flat object that wanted to move exactly along its 2d plane. Attach a propeller to the flate surface in a 3d dimension, and push the 2d object using the wind current generated by the fan in the 3rd dimension. That is strange locomotion.

A strange motor is a hyperdimensional structure that moves an object in 3-dimensional space using propulsion through a hyperdimensional medium. As such, most of the motor and its consequences are undetectable (unlike, say, rockets, who inevitably produce a noticeable heat signature). For a functional strange motor, control can be erratic and result in odd movement patterns, as the motor’s operation can only be known by inference, but it is ultimately predictable.

The techniques to build a strange motor are esoteric, requiring highly specialized factories and materials. Certain rings are more amenable than others to their construction. Additionally, strange motors may operate in different ways in different rings, based on the eccentricities of the hyperdimensional medium used by the strange motor. Motors must be carefully calibrated to only move exactly in parallel to the 3D space, otherwise the engine will be removed by sheering. Additionally, careful choice of hyperdimensional medium is essential; because the pilot cannot see the hyperdimensional medium whatsoever, they cannot avoid collisions with objects in the medium. It is thus necessary that the medium be extremely sparse of anything that could harm the motor.