Japanese startup Aerwins has begun selling a hoverbike they've been working on.
Though rotor-based and internal combustion, the company makes no bones about where the idea for their XTurismo came from:
"Our iconic product…was inspired by the popular Star Wars movie series. It is a manifestation of the dream of air mobility that endeavors to create a completely new way to experience the world, enabling users to feel the joy and pleasure of moving freely in space. It has a wide range of practical possibilities, both in Japan and overseas, including use in disaster relief, infrastructure inspection, and entertainment."
The company's accountants apparently use The Force; flush with cash, they've just received approval to list on the NASDAQ.
The XTurismo retails for $555,000. Here's what you get for your money:
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Underwhelming video aside—the company does mention it's a "training" video—the XTurismo reportedly has a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph) and a maximum flying time of 40 minutes.
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Comments
I can see inspection and entertainment potential, but with a single seat and no cargo area or rescue gear, I don't see disaster relief happening with this model. I'll assume there are other designs waiting go into production. But it is pretty cool to see!