Lexus builds an actual hoverboard [w/video]
Wed, Jun 24 2015
Like us, your first question is probably how this thing works if it is real. Unfortunately, Lexus is being very cagey with the details at this time. The Hoverboard allegedly runs on "magnetic levitation with liquid nitrogen-cooled superconductors and permanent magnets." That's all we know for the moment, but the Japanese automaker claims to be working with "experts in super-conductive technology."
While not the first functioning hoverboard, this one can apparently work on concrete, based on the teaser video. The company's spokespeople aren't giving away any of the tricks, either. "It is indeed real. We have worked with companies to make this happen, and there will be more demonstration of this later this summer," Nik Pearson, Press Relations Manager for Toyota and Lexus in the UK, said to Autoblog. "The technology mentioned in the release is accurate."
According to Lexus, the Hoverboard prototype is being tested in Barcelona. So any readers in the Spanish city should keep an eye out for someone floating by. Get any Back to the Future 2 dreams out of your head right now, though. The company is clear that this thing isn't going on sale. Pearson also reiterated that point to Autoblog: "Don't expect it in showrooms any time soon." The teaser video below shows off more of the board but still raises a lot of questions.
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LEXUS CREATES ADVANCED HOVERBOARD
Design and technology collaboration achieves creative breakthrough for new Lexus Amazing in Motion project
A Lexus has always been a vehicle that rides on wheels, in contact with the ground. Until now. This summer a new Lexus takes flight, bringing the stuff of science fiction closer to real world fact.
Lexus has worked with experts in super-conductive technology to create one of the most advanced Hoverboards the world has seen. The concept is the fourth project in its Amazing in Motion campaign, demonstrating its commitment to pursuing new possibilities in advanced design and technology.
Mark Templin, Executive Vice President, Lexus International, said: "At Lexus we constantly challenge ourselves and our partners to push the boundaries of what is possible. That determination, combined with our passion and expertise for design and innovation, is what led us to take on the Hoverboard project. It's the perfect example of the amazing things that can be achieved when you combine technology, design and imagination."
The Lexus project team has used magnetic levitation with liquid nitrogen-cooled superconductors and permanent magnets to give the Hoverboard frictionless movement of a kind that had been thought impossible.
Although a completely different form of transport, the Hoverboard shares design cues with today's Lexus cars, including the signature spindle grille. It has also been made using some of the same materials, both high-tech and natural, such as bamboo.
The Hoverboard is part of the fourth project in the Lexus Amazing in Motion campaign, an international showcase for the brand's creativity and innovation. The prototype is being tested in Barcelona in the coming weeks prior to the campaign's launch this summer.
Notes to editors: the Lexus Hoverboard is a prototype and will not be for sale. The project can be followed on Twitter using the official hashtags #LexusHover and #AmazinginMotion.
Design and technology collaboration achieves creative breakthrough for new Lexus Amazing in Motion project
A Lexus has always been a vehicle that rides on wheels, in contact with the ground. Until now. This summer a new Lexus takes flight, bringing the stuff of science fiction closer to real world fact.
Lexus has worked with experts in super-conductive technology to create one of the most advanced Hoverboards the world has seen. The concept is the fourth project in its Amazing in Motion campaign, demonstrating its commitment to pursuing new possibilities in advanced design and technology.
Mark Templin, Executive Vice President, Lexus International, said: "At Lexus we constantly challenge ourselves and our partners to push the boundaries of what is possible. That determination, combined with our passion and expertise for design and innovation, is what led us to take on the Hoverboard project. It's the perfect example of the amazing things that can be achieved when you combine technology, design and imagination."
The Lexus project team has used magnetic levitation with liquid nitrogen-cooled superconductors and permanent magnets to give the Hoverboard frictionless movement of a kind that had been thought impossible.
Although a completely different form of transport, the Hoverboard shares design cues with today's Lexus cars, including the signature spindle grille. It has also been made using some of the same materials, both high-tech and natural, such as bamboo.
The Hoverboard is part of the fourth project in the Lexus Amazing in Motion campaign, an international showcase for the brand's creativity and innovation. The prototype is being tested in Barcelona in the coming weeks prior to the campaign's launch this summer.
Notes to editors: the Lexus Hoverboard is a prototype and will not be for sale. The project can be followed on Twitter using the official hashtags #LexusHover and #AmazinginMotion.
Featured Gallery Lexus Hoverboard
View 9 Photos
- News Source: Lexus, Lexus International via YouTube
- Design/Style
- Lexus
- Technology
- Emerging Technologies
- viral video
By Chris Bruce
See also: Lexus takes to Pikes Peak in RC F GT Concept, Toyota recalls 1.37 million more vehicles for Takata airbags, Google shares more details on self-driving car accidents.