Please do not do this. Use a propane torch. A flamethrower literally throws burning fluids. It will melt the ice, then a ribbon of fire will flow down your driveway. It may then melt or even ignite your asphalt.
Yes and no. To melt/dry an entire driveway would be silly. But if you need to melt/dry a crack to make a repair then a propane torch will work. We have all seen them used by road crews. Million-btu torches are available on amazon for about fifty bucks.
It's not just the heat capacity of water, but also the energy required for phase-change from solid (ice) to liquid (water). That's why throwing salt on ice will melt it but also lower the temperature.
Please do not do this. Use a propane torch. A flamethrower literally throws burning fluids. It will melt the ice, then a ribbon of fire will flow down your driveway. It may then melt or even ignite your asphalt.