The idea has been passed through generations and generations of media since the 1970s, but a vehicle that defies gravity and is not limited by land-based boundaries is still only in works of science fiction.
I’m 25, and I think the idea of a flying car would be great! I’ve grown up watching “The Jetsons,” “Back to the Future” and “Star Wars.” The concept has always been around. Artists sketch them, writers write about them, and I would have thought that the vehicle wouldn’t still be just a concept but a reality by now. It seems as though we’ve forgotten all about the hovercar, and maybe it will never exist. But why?
The challenges are difficult to overcome: First, you need to build an aircraft that cannot fly, but can levitate high enough to float passed obstructions. Then, it needs to be built similar in size and shape to an automobile. If it is too big or too wide it wouldn’t meet the standards that our roads and driveways require. Finally, it has to be safe. If it isn’t safe than who’s going to want to drive it?
A company that goes by the name of Moller International has started production of a consumer-ready hovercar. It can hover 10 feet off the ground and cruise at a speed of more than 50 mph. Depending on the engine, it could cost anywhere from $90,000 to $125,000. Since it’s classified as a recreational device, it is not FAA approved and can be operated by anyone. The company claims it is “the ultimate off-road vehicle.” And, unlike the hovercraft, it will not create a dust cloud, because it does not use an air cushion as a way for it to hover. It uses eight engines that lift the craft off the ground. (If you’re interested in buying one, contact Mr. Bruce Calkins, at bruce@moller.com.)
Maybe we will all be floating around to work one day, just like the Jetsons.
Jonathan Masker is a wireless solution expert and a self-proclaimed gadget guru. Reach him at jonathan.masker@gmail.com.