Technology to support real-life Hoverboards is rapidly emerging. The Hendo Hoverboard uses magnetic energy to hover and is the first real step towards creating a board similar to Marty McFly’s board in the popular 1985 movie “Back to the Future.” The Hendo Hoverboard is not as compact as the one in the movie – it’s bigger, less maneuverable, needs metal underneath it, and hovers lower to the ground.
This idea started out as a small project but has raised more than $510,000 dollars in funding.
Other companies are working on different types of hovering vehicles. The AirBoard by Elviss Straupenieks consists of a platform powered by four propellers with a handle for steering. The company says the vehicle will be able to carry 220 pounds or more while hovering up to 5 feet above the ground.
“In theory, the AirBoard is a small manned aircraft that will help people traverse difficult terrain and other natural obstacles. The marketing video suggests that those living in inhospitable areas will make the best use of it,” according to Geek Snack.
Hendo Hoverboards are expected to be available to consumers by October 2015, but it will be at least three years until hover vehicles or other similar applications become available.
