PEOPLE AND PLACES

PEOPLE AND PLACES

Monday, July 30, 2012

Car like TRIKE leans like a motorbike:'suitcase scooter'

 

You'll never need a parking space again: The £2,000 'suitcase scooter' with a top speed of 28mph that can you can fold in half

  • Weighs 25 kilograms and has a battery life of 22 miles
  • Carbon-composite body can simply be folded in two and dragged into the office

For anyone who has ever struggled to find a parking space, it could be the ultimate commuter transport - a groundbreaking electric scooter that conveniently folds up. The practical scooter folds in the middle, allowing the user to easily take it on a train or in the back of a car before riding it at a respectable 28 mph. The innovative scooter has a comfortable traditional leather seat - making sure the rider is comfy as they travel through the city.

The Moveo scooter can reach 28 mph, and is propelled by in-wheel motors in both wheels. Instead of parking, owners can simply fold it in half and take it into the office

The Moveo scooter can reach 28 mph, and is propelled by in-wheel motors in both wheels. Instead of parking, owners can simply fold it in half and take it into the office

The end of parking: The practical scooter folds in the middle, allowing the user to easily take it on a train or in the back of a car - or just into the office

The end of parking: The practical scooter folds in the middle, allowing the user to easily take it on a train or in the back of a car - or just into the office

It weighs 25 kilograms and has a battery life of 22 miles - which takes just one hour to fully charge.

The scooter, known as Moveo, is propelled by in-wheel motors in both wheels and it takes just seconds to fold.

When users reach their destination, instead of looking for a parking space, they can simply fold the scooter's carbon-composite body in two. Then the golden bike can be pulled along by an integrated handle, before being taken inside like a suitcase.

And riders are protected against coming into contract with the dirty parts of the bike as it is completely closed when folded.

The company that designed the Moveo hopes it will be on sale at the start of next year.

It weighs 25 kilograms and has a battery life of 22 miles - which takes just one hour to fully charge

It weighs 25 kilograms and has a battery life of 22 miles - which takes just one hour to fully charge

The scooter, known as Moveo, is propelled by in-wheel motors in both wheels and it takes just seconds to fold

The scooter, known as Moveo, is propelled by in-wheel motors in both wheels and it takes just seconds to fold

Tamas Slezak, CEO of the Antro Group, who developed the scooter, believes that their product is definitely something for the future.

He said: 'The Moveo is ultra light-weight and is the best additional vehicle to public transport.

'You can travel eco-friendly in the easiest and quickest way, and our innovative product will suit commuters in big cities around the world.'

The Moveo will cost £2,000 and Mr Slezak added that sales will initially take place on the internet.

He added: 'It's almost ready for production and we are looking for investors, and with their help, we will be able to finalise the development.

'Most probably we will begin with medium scale production and after about a year ramp up for the bigger scale production.'

Busy commuters will soon dash to the office without worrying about parking - by riding a groundbreaking electric scooter that conveniently folds up.

Busy commuters will soon dash to the office without worrying about parking - by riding a groundbreaking electric scooter that conveniently folds up.

When folded up, the 25kg scooter can be dragged like a piece of luggage

When folded up, the 25kg scooter can be dragged like a piece of luggage

 

The one-wheeled electric scooter that's a cross between a Segway and a unicycle - and it's apparently impossible to fall off

  • The RYNO has a single wheel and runs on electricity
  • The scooter reaches speeds of 25mph and lasts 50 miles on one charge
  • Self-balancing technology means the driver can't fall off, unlike a Segway
  • It can be parked anywhere a bike can be parked - free of charge

What do you get when you cross a Segway and a mobility scooter? The electric RYNO scooter that is apparently impossible to fall off.

The one-wheeled, battery-powered scooter can travel at a speed of up to 25mph and can be parked anywhere, free of charge.

It was designed by Portland-based RYNO Motors specifically for commuters to help beat the traffic and avoid expensive parking charges.

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The RYNO, pictured, is a one-wheeled, battery-powered scooter that can travel of speeds up to 25mph.

The RYNO, pictured, is a one-wheeled, battery-powered scooter that can travel of speeds up to 25mph. Because of its size, the RYNO can be parked anywhere a bike can be parked. It was designed by Portland-based RYNO Motors for commuters to help beat traffic and avoid expensive parking charges

To drive the RYNO, the driver must lean forward to accelerate and backward to decelerate.

To drive the RYNO, the driver must lean forward to accelerate and backward to decelerate. The RYNO scooter is also fitted with self-balancing technology that means the scooter can automatically right itself if the driver leans too far to the left or right, or too far forwards or backwards

The RYNO works like a Segway - the driver must lean forward to accelerate and backward to decelerate. 

But unlike a Segway, the RYNO scooter is also fitted with self-balancing technology that means the scooter will automatically right itself if the driver leans too far to the left or right, or too far forwards and backwards.

It weighs 57kg and can cope with slopes of up to 30 per cent gradient. The idea for the scooter came from the daughter of the firm's CEO Chris Hoffmann in 2009.

She had seen a one-wheeled motorbike in a game she was playing and asked her Dad to make one for her to ride to school.

Hoffman said: 'With a product like RYNO, a rider can slip behind a wall, cut up the alley, around behind the big oak tree, down though the park and emerge at a destination long before anyone driving a car could ever get there.

Is it a Segway? Is it a unicycle? Nope, it's the new RYNO bike

The RYNO scooter weighs 57kg, and can cope with slopes of up to 30 per cent.

The RYNO scooter weighs 57kg, and can cope with slopes of up to 30 per cent. Its battery can be removed and plugged into electricity sockets to charge. It then takes around 90 minutes to fully charge the device

'Plus a RYNO can be parked anywhere a bike can be parked, free of charge.'

The designers also claim it can be taken on trains and driven through pedestrianised areas and shops in the same way mobility scooters can.

Its inventors add: 'Or simply ride the RYNO through a lobby and up the elevator to your own apartment.'

Although the RYNO reaches speeds of 25mph, it is regulated when being driven in cities and towns to 12.5mph.

The RYNO's battery can be removed and be plugged into electricity sockets to charge.

The RYNO is classified in the same group as mobility scooters. This means it can be driven in pedestrianised areas and inside buildings.

The RYNO is classified in the same group as mobility scooters. This means it can be driven in pedestrianised areas and inside buildings. It is also light enough to be carried onto trains or into houses. Although it has a top speed of 25mph, the RYNO is restricted to 12.5mph when driven in a town or city

The company claims it takes around 90 minutes to fully charge the device.

Hoffman continued: 'See what happens when you ride through the streets, it’s the same everywhere, people think they’re watching something out of a video game.

'Even though it takes less than an hour to learn to ride, onlookers think you have the skill of a circus performer.'

The RYNO is set to go on sale from August 2013.

The company hasn't released full specifications or price details but it is expected to cost around £2,250, according to figures released when the concept was launched in 2010.

The RYNO is shown here with RYNO Motor's CEO Chris Hoffmann.

The RYNO is shown here with RYNO Motor's CEO Chris Hoffmann. The idea for the scooter came from Hoffmann's daughter. She had seen a one-wheeled motorbike in a game she was playing and asked her Dad to make one for her to ride to school

Three-wheelers have become cool: Toyota's prototype of its intelligent TRIKE leans like a motorbike when speeding round corners

  • The i-ROAD personal mobility vehicle is designed for negotiating busy city streets and is no wider than a standard motorbike
  • The trike uses 'Active Lean' technology that allows its wheels to move up and down to calculate the best position for going round tight corners
  • Part of Toyota's eco range, the prototype is electric and has a range of 30 miles on a single charge
  • Toyota has not said if or when the vehicle will go on sale but it will be used in a futuristic trial transport scheme in Japan next year

A narrow three-wheeled electric vehicle could offer commuters the freedom to squeeze through traffic jams as if were driving a motorbike, while offering the stability and safety of being inside a car.

Toyota's i-ROAD personal mobility vehicle is designed for negotiating busy city streets and is no wider than a standard motorbike, but can be driven like a car thanks to intelligent front wheels that automatically adjust to suit the driver's actions.

The trike uses 'Active Lean' technology that allows its wheels to move up and down to calculate the best position for going round tight corners, or weaving in and out of traffic.

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Toyota's i-ROAD personal mobility vehicle

Toyota's i-ROAD personal mobility vehicle is designed for negotiating busy city streets and is no wider than a standard motorbike, but can be driven like a car thanks to intelligent front wheels that automatically adjust to suit the driver's actions

The trike uses 'Active Lean' technology

The trike uses 'Active Lean' technology that allows its wheels to move up and down to calculate the best position for going round tight corners, or weaving in and out of traffic

This makes the vehicle lean a little like a motorbike, yet the driver can operate the vehicle without noticing the automated technology to drive the vehicle like a normal car.

The i-ROAD could be the answer for people who like the idea of cutting through traffic on a motorbike, but like the creature comforts of their car. It seats two people under cover, is 'intuitive' to drive' and there is no need for a helmet, according to the company. The Active Lean technology is the key to the vehicle's stability, safety and comfort,Toyota told Mail Online, as it offers a stable ride without the driver having to maintain the balance of the vehicle.

The i-ROAD could be the answer for people who like the idea of cutting through traffic on a motorbike

The i-ROAD could be the answer for people who like the idea of cutting through traffic on a motorbike, but like the creature comforts of their car. It seats two people under cover, is 'intuitive' to drive' and there is no need for a helmet, according to the company

Part of Toyota's eco range, the i-ROAD prototype is electric and has a range of 30 miles on a single charge

Part of Toyota's eco range, the i-ROAD prototype is electric and has a range of 30 miles on a single charge

The system uses a lean actuator and gearing mounted above the front suspension member, linked via a yoke to the left and right front wheels.

An engine control unit calculates the required degree of lean based on steering angle, gyro-sensor and vehicle speed information, with the system automatically moving the wheels up and down in opposite directions, applying lean angle to counteract the centrifugal force of cornering.

The system also operates when the vehicle is being driven in a straight line over stepped surfaces, the actuator automatically compensating for changes in the road to keep the body level. This means that if a driver tries to park the trike and rides up on a kerb, it will stay level.

The i-ROAD: Cool new personal motorised vehicle by Toyota

A spokesman told MailOnline that anyone who can drive a car can 'jump in and drive the i-ROAD

A spokesman told MailOnline that anyone who can drive a car can 'jump in and drive the i-ROAD as there is nothing special to learn - you don't have to know how to drive a motorbike'

Part of Toyota's eco range, the prototype is electric and has a range of 30 miles on a single charge, which may not be a long distance, but the company believes this type of vehicle could serve as the main mode of transport for short urban journeys in the future.

The vehicle's speed can be limited to suit road laws for its class of vehicles. It can typically travel at up to 45km per hour (28 mph) but has a maximum speed of 60kph (37mph).

A spokesman told MailOnline that anyone who can drive a car can 'jump in and drive the i-ROAD as there is nothing special to learn - you don't have to know how to drive a motorbike' as the leaning motion happens automatically and while the driver experiences a 'different sensation' to driving a car, it is no different to operate.

He also said that the driver and passengers so not 'heave to one side' of the vehicle like when a car takes a corner a little too quickly.

Despite the vehicle being narrow, its smart, moveable wheels mean that drivers do not need to stabilise the vehicle when it is stationary - like motorcyclists putting their feet on the road surface at traffic lights.

Toyota believes its concept trike could play a role in reducing traffic jams and pollution in cities

Toyota believes its concept trike could play a role in reducing traffic jams and pollution in cities and is going to roll out its vehicles in Tokyo's Ha:mo urban transport system

HOW DOES ACTIVE LEAN TECHNOLOGY  WORK?

The system uses a lean actuator and gearing mounted above the front suspension member, linked via a yoke to the left and right front wheels.

An engine control unit calculates the required degree of lean based on steering angle, gyro-sensor and vehicle speed information, with the system automatically moving the wheels up and down in opposite directions, applying lean angle to counteract the centrifugal force of cornering.

The system also operates when the PMV is being driven in a straight line over stepped surfaces, the actuator automatically compensating for changes in the road to keep the body level.

Because of this, the vehicle has a closed body with creature comforts such as lighting, heating, audio and Bluetooth.

Toyota said: 'People using this kind of vehicle want something that is more comfortable, offers better weather protection and is safer than a two-wheeler such as a scooter or motorcycle, but has similar benefits of low running costs, easy parking and around-town manoeuvrability.'

The i-ROAD is 2.35 metres long, 1.45 metres high but just 85 centimetres wide - similar to a motorbike - which Toyota said is handy for manoeuvring through congested traffic and allows four of the vehicles to be parked in a single parking bay.

The trike uses a lithium-ion battery to power its two 2kW motors mounted on the front wheels and emits no emissions.

Toyota believes its concept trike could play a role in reducing traffic jams and pollution in cities and is going to roll out its vehicles in Tokyo's Ha:mo urban transport system, which will combine different forms of public and private transport including electric car sharing and traffic routing in a large-scale trial.

the vehicle being narrow

Despite the vehicle being narrow, its moveable wheels mean that drivers do not need to stabilise the vehicle when it is stationary - like motorcyclists putting their feet on the road surface at traffic lights

The vehicle has a closed body with creature comforts such as lighting, heating, audio and Bluetooth

The vehicle has a closed body with creature comforts such as lighting, heating, audio and Bluetooth

 

 

£3million Lamborghini that can travel from 0-60mph in under three seconds and is named 'Veneno' after a fighting bull

  • Only three of the cars will be built and sold - and they already have buyers
  • Built specially to celebrate the Italian firm's 50th anniversary
  • Car expected to accelerate from 0 to 60mph in less than three seconds

An exclusive new 220mph supercar named after a legendary and lethal fighting bull is to roar into life  with a £3million price tag.

But only three of the new Lamborghini Venenos - described as a 'street legal racing car' - will be built and sold; and they already have buyers.

The £9million trio have been built specially to celebrate the Italian supercar firm’s 50th anniversary and each will carry a different colour from Italy’s national flag – green, white and red.

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Sueprcar: The exclusive new 220mph Lamborghini Veneno, which has a £3million price tag

Sueprcar: The exclusive new 220mph Lamborghini Veneno, which has a £3million price tag

Speed: The car is expected to be able to accelerate from rest to 60mph in under 3 seconds

Speed: The car is expected to be able to accelerate from rest to 60mph in under 3 seconds

The two-seater Veneno is powered by a massive 6.5 litre 12 cylinder petrol engine developing 750 horse-power – equivalent to seven Ford Fiestas – linked to a seven speed manual gear-box with five different driving modes and permanent all-wheel drive, which Lamborghini says delivers ‘a thrilling combination of absolute high-revving frenzy and phenomenal pulling power’.

It is expected to accelerate from rest to 60mph in under 3 seconds.

Lamborghini described the ‘extremely exclusive’ Veneno as ‘a racing prototype and road-going super sports car’ based on the Lamborghini Aventador. It was unveiled on the eve of the Geneva Motor show in Switzerland at a special evening event hosted by the parent Volkswagen Group at which Britain’s Bentley also showcased its new Flying Spur.

The supercar firm said: 'Only three unique units of the Lamborghini Veneno will be built and sold.

'Its design is consistently focused on optimum aerodynamics, giving the Veneno the look of a racing prototype, yet it holds a regular road license.'

Exclusive: Only three of the new Lamborghini Venenos will be built and sold - and they already have buyers

Exclusive: Only three of the new Lamborghini Venenos will be built and sold - and they already have buyers

Power: The two-seater Veneno is powered by a massive 6.5 litre 12 cylinder petrol engine developing 750 horse-power, equivalent to seven Ford Fiestas

Power: The two-seater Veneno is powered by a massive 6.5 litre 12 cylinder petrol engine developing 750 horse-power, equivalent to seven Ford Fiestas

Lightweight but super-strong carbon fibre materials form the single cell or monocoque chassis as well as the outer skin of the ‘extreme sports car’ with an aluminium sub-frame and ‘scissor doors’ which open up and out.

A spokesman for Lamborghini said: 'Fully in keeping with the tradition of the brand, the name of the Veneno originates from a legendary fighting bull.

'Veneno is the name of one of the strongest and most aggressive fighting bulls ever. He is also famous to be one of the fastest bulls in the history of bullfight. His name became popular in 1914, when he gored do death José Sánchez Rodríguez during the bullfight in the arena Sanlúcar de Barrameda's.'

The aerodynamically sculpted supercar has razor-sharp lines, an arrow-shaped front, a smooth underbody, four sizable exhaust end pipes divided by a splitter, a large central fin and an adjustable rear wing.

Unveiled: The new Lamborghini Veneno is introduced by chief executive and chairman Stephan Winkelmann during a preview of Volkswagen Group ahead of the Geneva Car Show

Unveiled: The new Lamborghini Veneno is introduced by chief executive and chairman Stephan Winkelmann during a preview of Volkswagen Group ahead of the Geneva Car Show

Racing prototype: Lamborghini has described the 'extremely exclusive' Veneno as 'a racing prototype and road-going super sports car' based on the Lamborghini Aventador

Racing prototype: Lamborghini has described the 'extremely exclusive' Veneno as 'a racing prototype and road-going super sports car' based on the Lamborghini Aventador

To boost aerodynamic flow, the side line of the Veneno is therefore dominated by enormous sills and mighty wheel arches front and rear.

A spokesman said: 'The Lamborghini Veneno brings the aerodynamic efficiency of a racing prototype to the road. Every detail of its form pursues a clear function – exceptional dynamics, optimum downforce with minimal drag and perfect cooling of the high-performance engine.

'The entire front end of the Lamborghini Veneno has been laid out for perfect airflow and downforce. The front end works as a large aerodynamic wing.'

It has 20 inch alloy wheels at the front and 21 inches at the rear. A carbon-fibre ring around the wheel rim works like a turbine to deliver additional cooling air to the powerful carbon-ceramic brake discs as they get hot.

Aerodynamic: The supercar has razor-sharp lines, an arrow-shaped front, four sizable exhaust end pipes divided by a splitter, a large central fin and an adjustable rear wing

Aerodynamic: The supercar has razor-sharp lines, an arrow-shaped front, four sizable exhaust end pipes divided by a splitter, a large central fin and an adjustable rear wing

Rare: The fourth car, called 'number 0' and created as a test vehicle for the other three, is the only one being shown at Geneva

Rare: The fourth car, called 'number 0' and created as a test vehicle for the other three, is the only one being shown at Geneva

The Veneno is painted in an all-new, grey metallic-look colour with individual parts highlighed in black in the exposed and visible carbon-fibre structure.

The three cars sold to customers compose a trilogy in green, white and red accents, each of one featuring a single color of the Italian national flag, thus representing a unique piece: ‘The trilogy of three unique vehicles will be produced in the course of the year 2013 and handed over to their future owners.’

A fourth car called 'number 0' and created as a test vehicle for the other three is the only one being shown at Geneva and will also be the only Veneno displaying all three colours of the Italian flag.
Lamborghini said: 'Its future has not been determined yet, but it will allow Lamborghini to continue its activity of testing and innovation, both on the road and on the race track.'

Quick: To boost aerodynamic flow, the side line of the Veneno is dominated by enormous sills and mighty wheel arches front and rear

Quick: To boost aerodynamic flow, the side line of the Veneno is dominated by enormous sills and mighty wheel arches front and rear

All exterior parts are made from carbon fibre which also dominates the interior with an exposed central tunnel and sills.

Two lightweight bucket seats are made from Lamborghini’s patented composite. A specially woven carbon-fibre skin is used to clad the entire cockpit, part of the seats and the headliner.

A spokesman said: 'This unique material is soaked in a very special kind of resin that stabilizes the fibre structure, while allowing the material to remain supple. Like a hi-tech fabric, this extremely fine-looking carbon-fibre matting fits perfectly to any form. And it reduces weight.'

The remote control toy that could change the way we travel: Car that transforms into a quadcopter revealed - and a FULL SIZE version is on the way

  • Remote control toy could pave the way for a full size vehicle
  • Can drive on large wheels, then simply take off at any point

It could be the future of transportation - and is one of most impressive hi-tech toys on the market as well.

A British inventor has unveiled the B - and combined off road remote control car that can turn into a quadcopter and take off. Witold Mielniczek of the University of Southampton says his invention could even be scaled up to create a full-sized car.

The B has both large off-road wheels and four rotor blades to turn it into a quadcopter - and its inventors say it could be scaled up to a full sized car

The B has both large off-road wheels and four rotor blades to turn it into a quadcopter - and its inventors say it could be scaled up to a full sized car

The B in mid-air: The rotors allow it to be controlled exactly like a normal quadcopter

The B in mid-air: The rotors allow it to be controlled exactly like a normal quadcopter

THE OFF ROAD COPTER

The features of the B include:

Vertical take-off and landing

Able to transition on the move between driving, flying and back again

Up to 15 minutes of action on a single charge

HD (1280 x 720 px) camera on-board with recording capability.
An experience which has not been possible within one package before

Durable construction that is designed with punishing terrain in mind

'B is a revolutionary new remote controlled hybrid car-helicopter with a patent pending design,' he says on the Kickstarter site set up to fund the project.

'It is capable of driving across difficult terrain using its large rear drive wheels and when the obstacles become too big, simply take-off and fly over them.'Prototype cars have already been built, and are able to almost instantly swap from car to quadcopter. 'B is a toy that provides an extraordinary experience,' the site claims.

'B is virtually unstoppable, capable of transitioning between ground and air allowing the development of tricks otherwise impossible to achieve.'

The car also has a HD video camera to send back live footage of its exploits - and luckily for novice pilots has been designed to survive major crashes.

'The combination of the design and material selection creates a solid construction that is capable of surviving the worst of landings,' the site says.

'When the vehicle crashes from high altitudes, the driving rings detach from the housing and can be easily put back together.

'The main chassis is made out of Polycarbonate, which is the same material used in protective goggles and bullet proof windows.'

How it works: The B is controlled by an on-board computer, with a HD video camera in its nose and a design its inventors say can survive most crashes

How it works: The B is controlled by an on-board computer, with a HD video camera in its nose and a design its inventors say can survive most crashes

Inside the B: The design is based around a polycarbonate shell to protect the craft from crashes

Inside the B: The design is based around a polycarbonate shell to protect the craft from crashes

'The body shell not only serves as a protective and decorative feature, it is also a structural element.

'The chassis when combined with the body shell not only forms a rigid and light construction that maintains its shape when flying or driving, but is also flexible enough to absorb excessive forces generated during crash landings.

'Therefore, you can push B to the limits even when your skills are not at the highest level.

'This makes B an excellent platform for all users ranging from newcomers to experts. '

The design is one of the first to combine a helicopter a car

The design is one of the first to combine a helicopter a car

Several prototypes have already been built, and the project hopes to raise £85,000 to begin production

Several prototypes have already been built, and the project hopes to raise £85,000 to begin production

The foldable boat you can make quicker than a cup of tea: Vessel travels at 20 knots and can be made in 60 SECONDS

  • Quickboat can be built in three minutes by one person or one minute by two
  • The fibreglass and Kevlar boat is 3.7 metres long and 1.7 metres wide
  • The £2850 boat can fit four adults and travel in enclosed waters with 9.8hp

Building a boat that travels at over 20 knots could now take less time than it does to make a cup of tea. The flat-pack foldable ‘Quickboat' takes 60 seconds to build by a two person team. Deryck Graham, the managing director of Quickboats, has reportedly said that one person with a beer in hand could build the boat in three minutes even with friends around to distract them.

Quickboat

The flat-pack folding Quickboat can be unpacked in 60 seconds. The design is due to be unveiled at the 2013 Sydney International Boat Show

Quickboat

When not in use, the Quickboat can simply be hung up on a wall, placed on a shelf or stored under the bed. The parts for Quickboat are assembled by clicking into place. Once constructed, the fibreglass and Kevlar boat is 3.7 metres long and 1.7 metres wide. Due to be unveiled at the 2013 Sydney International Boat Show later this week, the boat can fit four adults and travel in enclosed waters with 9.8hp.

The entire boat packs down into two bags, with one bag measuring less than 4 metres and weighing a 36kg.

The second bag weighs 18kg and measures 1.5 metres making it simple to carry the boat from the car.

The foldable boat you can make in 60 SECONDS

Quickboat

Once assembled, the fibreglass and Kevlar boat is 3.7 metres long and 1.7 metres wide. It can fit four adults and can travel in enclosed waters at over 20 knots with 9.8hp

Quickboat

The entire boat packs down into two bags, with one bag measuring less than 4 metres and weighing a mere 36kg. The second bag weighs 18kg and measures 1.5 metres making it simple to carry the boat from the car

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Boat length: 3.7m
Beam: 1.7m
Folded hull weight: 35kg
People (75kgs per person): 4
Maximum horsepower: 10hp
Folded length: 3.64m
Folded width: 0.7m
Folded height: 0.13m

When not in use, the Quickboat, which is currently being sold at around £2,850, can be hung up on a wall, placed on a shelf or stored under the bed.

According to the Austrialian firm, the boat cuts out registration costs if powered at less than 5hp which makes the vessel ideal for recreational skippers.

Quickboats insists its design is safe as is made from advanced composites such as high-end fibreglass and Kevlar and designed to function like other traditional small boats.

Several International Aid agencies have already expressed interest in using the Quickboat for flood relief and rescue operations.

Foldable boats have been gaining popularity in recent years.

Last year two design students from London created a foldable boat based on the ones created using origami.

The full-size vessel is folded from an 8ft by 5ft piece of plastic and can be transformed from a flat sheet to a rowing boat by a single person in two minutes using only three components.

Another model of the £800 'Foldboat' can be folded up and carried in a backpack.

 

Water way to drive! The world's fastest amphibious vehicle can go from car to boat in just 15 SECONDS

  • The Panther reaches water speeds of 45mph - as fast as a speedboat
  • It can be driven straight from the land into water
  • The amphibious design goes from a car to a boat in just 15 seconds
  • The 15ft Jeep-style vehicle costs £89,000

You no longer need to be a spy like James Bond to get your hands on an amphibious car. California-based WaterCar has designed the world's fastest Jeep-style vehicle that can be driven straight from the land into the water and goes from a car to a boat in just 15 seconds. Called the Panther, the vehicle can reach water speeds of up to 45mph - almost as fast as an average speedboat - and is fitted with a custom-made 3.7 litre V6 engine, fibreglass hull and lightweight chromoly steel chassis.

A Californian-based car company has designed the world's fastest amphibious car called the Panther, pictured.

A Californian-based car company has designed the world's fastest amphibious car called the Panther, pictured. It is capable of reaching water speeds of up to 45mph - almost as fast as an average speedboat - plus can be driven up to 80mph on land

The £89k Panther can be driven straight from the land into the water and goes from a car to a boat in just 15 seconds.

The £89k Panther can be driven straight from the land into the water and goes from a car to a boat in just 15 seconds. The wheels are lifted into the chassis using hydraulics and the car switches to a boat using a 'jet drive' lever

THE PANTHER'S SPECIFICATIONS

Weight: 2950 lbs

Height: 69" windshield up, 51" windshield down, 44" windshield down, wheels retracted

Length: 180"

Width: 72"

Water Speed: 44 mph

Land Speed: 80+ mph

Passengers: 4

Engine: Honda 3.7 liter VTEC

Transmission: 4 speed manual

Marine Propulsion: Panther Jet

Brakes: Four wheel disc

Wheel Retraction: Hydraulic

Fuel: 91 Octane Pump Gas

Cooling System: Closed with marine heat exchanger

It is also capable of reaching speeds of 80mph on land.

James Bond, played by Sir Roger Moore, famously drove an amphibious Lotus Esprit from the land into the sea during the 1976 film The Spy Who Loved Me. WaterCar partner Fred Selby, 66, from Newport Beach, California spent 11 years fine-turning the machine before he felt ready to put it on the market.

The Panther's design is based on a Jeep CJ8 Scrambler, however, because the chassis of the Jeep was too heavy for the water, the Panther's lightweight chassis is made of chromoly steel.

Once in the water, the Panther is remarkably stable for a boat that is only 15 ft (4.6 m) in length.

The Panther's chromoly steel chassis was designed to slip into a fibreglass hull.

The Panther's chromoly steel chassis was designed to slip into a fibreglass hull. The hull is also filled with closed-cell styrofoam to help the car stay afloat. The engine for the Panther is the latest-generation Acura 3.7-liter VTEC V-6 engine, custom-fitted with aluminium parts, a overhead camshaft cylinder head and 24 valves

The Panther was designed by WaterCar partner Fred Selby, from Newport Beach, California.

The Panther was designed by WaterCar partner Fred Selby, from California. Selby spent 11 years fine-turning the machine. The Panther's design is based on a Jeep CJ8 Scrambler, however, because the chassis of the Jeep is heavy, the Panther's lightweight chassis is made of chromoly steel

Water skiing using your CAR? Yes, you can, with the WaterCar

The Panther's chassis was designed to slip into a fibreglass hull - similar to those used on Formula 1 cars. 

The hull is also filled with closed-cell styrofoam to help the car stay afloat. 

The engine for the Panther is the latest-generation Acura 3.7-liter VTEC V-6 engine, custom-fitted with aluminium parts, a overhead camshaft cylinder head and 24 valves.

Both intake and exhaust valves are controlled by Acura's Variable valve Timing and lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system.

This engine produces 305 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and on land the Panther can reach speeds of around 80mph.

The Panther weighs 2950lbs and is 15ft long. As a boat, the amphibious vehicle is powered by a Panther marine propulsion jet.

The Panther weighs 2950lbs and is 15ft long. As a boat, the amphibious vehicle is powered by a Panther marine propulsion jet. It needs to be travelling at around 15mph to get enough momentum to enter the water

WaterCar's Panther car can carry up to four passengers in both land and water mode

WaterCar's Panther car can carry up to four passengers in both land and water mode. The vehicle can be fitted with fishing rod holders, pictured. It can be sailed in both salt and fresh water and the chassis is protected from water damage

It needs to be travelling at around 15mph to enter the water and can then reach top speeds of almost 45mph.

To drive the Panther in water, the driver must put the four-speed gear changer in neutral, pull a knob to switch the transfer case to 'jet drive', hydraulically lift the wheels and tyres out of the water, and start boating.

This entire process takes less than 15 seconds.

The Panther starts at £49,800 ($76,000) for a 'Rolling chassis', £70,000 ($106,000) for a 'Turn-key minus' version, and £89,000 ($135,000) for a complete Panther.

The Rolling chassis is a kit and additional components can be bought off the shelf.

The Turn-key minus version doesn't come with an engine.

The Panther starts at £49,800 for a 'Rolling chassis', £70,000 for a 'Turn-key minus' version, and £89,000 for a complete Panther.

The Panther starts at £49,800 for a 'Rolling chassis', £70,000 for a 'Turn-key minus' version, and £89,000 for a complete Panther. The Rolling chassis is a kit and additional components can be bought off the shelf. The Turn-key minus version doesn't come with an engine

To drive the Panther in water, the driver must put the four-speed gear changer into neutral, switch the transfer case to 'jet drive', hydraulically lift the wheels and tyres out of the water, and start boating

To drive the Panther in water, the driver must put the four-speed gear changer into neutral, switch the transfer case to 'jet drive', hydraulically lift the wheels and tyres out of the water, and start boating

'The Panther is equally at home on the land or sea,' said Selby.

'Revolutionary in its design and engineering, a WaterCar Panther takes you anywhere you want to go.

'The thrilling acceleration is provided by a Honda V6 V-Tec motor.

'You can leave the highway behind thanks to its long travel off road suspension and travel in the water courtesy of the panther jet.

'And do all this with the security of knowing you are surrounded by a state of the art revolutionary designed composite body.

James Bond, played by Sir Roger Moore, famously drove an amphibious Lotus Esprit, pictured, from the land into the sea during the 1976 film The Spy Who Loved Me

James Bond, played by Sir Roger Moore, famously drove an amphibious Lotus Esprit, pictured, from the land into the sea during the 1976 film The Spy Who Loved Me

'Nothing compares to driving a Panther.'

The design looks like a four-wheel drive and the bodywork is made from a fibreglass chassis that is capable of withstanding salt-water.

The outboard motor which powers the car is capable of travelling 2000,000 miles before needing serious maintenance.

'You will be absolutely blown away by the Panther,' said Selby.

'Our WaterCar team did a fabulous job of creating an extraordinary vehicle that is exciting, raw fun, yet incredibly practical.'

 

Forget your 4x4, it's time for the SIX BY SIX: Mercedes launches G63 - their first six-wheeled model since the Nazi era

Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 is a limited edition model based on iconic G-Wagon Vehicle is a 536bhp behemoth capable of 0-62mph in less than six seconds.It has 37 inch wheels and comes with a massive £350,000 price tag. Mercedes have unveiled a monstrous new rugged off-roader with six wheels - their first since a similar model was produced for the Nazis in 1930s Germany. The outrageous Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 is a limited edition model based on the iconic G-Wagon. It has been designed to have the off-road capabilities of a tank, accelerate like a hot hatch and provide the luxury feel of a limousine.

Monster: The Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 is a limited edition model based on the iconic G-Wagon

Monster: The Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 is a limited edition model based on the iconic G-Wagon

Acceleration: Mercedes has replaced the standard G Wagon's 3-litre diesel engine with a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8

Acceleration: Mercedes has replaced the standard G Wagon's 3-litre diesel engine with a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8

Suitable: Mercedes claims the vehicle can negotiate rocky ground with 'all the agility of a mountain goat'

Suitable: Mercedes claims the vehicle can negotiate rocky ground with 'all the agility of a mountain goat'

Size: The behemoth of a vehicle measures 19ft in length and weighs 3.85 tons

Size: The behemoth of a vehicle measures 19ft in length and weighs 3.85 tons. To give it brutal acceleration, Mercedes has replaced the standard G Wagon's 3-litre diesel engine with a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8. The result is a 536bhp behemoth which is capable of 0-62mph in less than six seconds - despite measuring 19ft in length, weighing 3.85 tons. Mercedes claims the 6x6 - which has 37 inch wheels - can negotiate rocky terrain with 'all the agility of a mountain goat', while fording a river is 'almost child's play'.They add: 'Anyone exploring the on-road performance is certain to be impressed by the catapult-like acceleration of this 3.85-tonne pickup.' However, the 6x6 comes with a massive £350,000 price-tag - making it the most expensive model in the Mercedes range and three-times as pricey as a typical G Wagon. The off-roader, which is likely to be most popular in the Middle-East, will be limited to around 30 sales per year.

Power: The 6x6 has 563bhp and is capable of 0-62mph in less than six seconds

Power: The 6x6 has 563bhp and is capable of 0-62mph in less than six seconds

Exclusive: The off-roader will be limited to around 30 sales per year

Exclusive: The off-roader will be limited to around 30 sales per year

Head-to-head: The new 6x6 is based on the iconic G-Wagon

Head-to-head: The new 6x6 is based on the iconic G-Wagon

Interior: The off-roader comes with a massive £350,000 price-tag

Interior: The off-roader comes with a massive £350,000 price-tag. The new model is not the first six-wheel off-roader from the German firm, with Hitler owning eight during the Third Reich. The G4 was a heavy-duty off-road car Mercedes produced for the German army between 1934 and 1939. Mercedes built 57 G4s during this period with heads of state and top military brass regarding them as a 'prestige all-terrain vehicle'.

Not the first: The G4 was a heavy-duty off-road car Mercedes produced for the German army between 1934 and 1939

Not the first: The G4 was a heavy-duty off-road car Mercedes produced for the German army between 1934 and 1939

Modern: Unlike the new Mercedes G63 AMG (pictured) however, the G4 wasn't six-wheel drive with power only sent to the rear four wheels

Modern: Unlike the new Mercedes G63 AMG (pictured) however, the G4 wasn't six-wheel drive with power only sent to the rear four wheels

Rare: It is understood there are just three G4 models in existence which are absolutely authentic although other models have been rebuilt

Rare: It is understood there are just three G4 models in existence which are absolutely authentic although other models have been rebuilt. Hitler was a huge fan and had eight of the six-wheeled cars, with a number located at his various castles around Germany. However, unlike the new Mercedes G63 AMG, the G4 wasn't six-wheel drive with power only sent to the rear four wheels. It is understood there are just three models in existence which are absolutely authentic although other models have been rebuilt. One of these models is owned by the Spanish royal family after Hitler gave it to General Franco in 1939.

Costly: The G63 AMG 6x6 is the most expensive model in the Mercedes range and three-times as pricey as a typical G Wagon

Costly: The G63 AMG 6x6 is the most expensive model in the Mercedes range and three-times as pricey as a typical G Wagon

In control: Mercedes claim fording a river in the 6x6, which has 37 inch wheels, is 'almost child's play'

In control: Mercedes claim fording a river in the 6x6, which has 37 inch wheels, is 'almost child's play'

New: A Mercedes spokesman said, 'Anyone exploring the on-road performance is certain to be impressed by the catapult-like acceleration of this 3.85-tonne pickup'

New: A Mercedes spokesman said, 'Anyone exploring the on-road performance is certain to be impressed by the catapult-like acceleration of this 3.85-tonne pickup'

 

The Rolls that reads the roads: £225,000 supercar scans ahead to pick the right gear

Rolls-Royce Wraith uses GPS mapping to pre-select the correct gear - even for roundabouts. Car also has voice activated satellite navigation system. Power comes from a 6.7litre, 624brake horse-power engine. Rolls-Royce say it is the  most powerful car they’ve ever produced. It is also probably one of the sleekest machines to bear the prestige marque. For those qualities alone, the £225,000 Rolls-Royce Wraith is likely to be one of the stars of the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. But this car is rather clever, too. It can read the road that hasn’t quite come into the driver’s view yet.

 

Sleek: The two-door £225,000 Rolls-Royce Wraith which can 'see' further ahead than its driver thanks to GPS technology

Sleek: The two-door £225,000 Rolls-Royce Wraith which can 'see' further ahead than its driver thanks to GPS technology

Powerhouse: The Wraith has a 6.7litre, 624brake horse-power V12 engine - the equivalent of six Ford Fiestas - and can reach 60mph in 4.4 seconds

Powerhouse: The Wraith has a 6.7litre, 624brake horse-power V12 engine - the equivalent of six Ford Fiestas - and can reach 60mph in 4.4 seconds

Low-slung: The car has the sweeping styling of a 'fastback' coupe and Rolls describes the four-seater as 'the ultimate gentleman's grand tourer'

Low-slung: The car has the sweeping styling of a 'fastback' coupe and Rolls describes the four-seater as 'the ultimate gentleman's grand tourer'. Using GPS mapping, it pre-selects the correct gear for what lies ahead – even when confronted with potentially complicated situations such as roundabouts and motorway junctions. A company spokesman said: ‘The satellite-aided transmission uses GPS data to see beyond what the driver sees; it anticipates his or her next move based on location and current driving style, then selects the most appropriate gear for the terrain ahead.’

Will it fit in my garage?

Naturally, the driver retains  ultimate control of the car’s automatic gearbox through the brakes and accelerator. Apart from the transmission, the latest technology is also deployed in the Wraith’s steering and suspension and in its voice-activated controls – ‘the on-board valet’. These include the satellite navigation, meaning the car can simply be told its destination. The low-slung Wraith has the sweeping styling of a ‘fastback’ coupe and Rolls-Royce describes the four-seater as ‘the ultimate gentleman’s grand tourer’. The latest car to bear the Spirit of Ecstasy Flying Lady figurine is powered by a mighty 6.7litre V12  petrol engine developing 624brake horse-power – equivalent to six Ford Fiestas. Linked to an eight-speed automatic gear-box, the Wraith will accelerate from rest to 60mph in 4.4 seconds with its top speed artificially limited to 155mph. Rolls-Royce said the car, reviving a name first used in 1938, goes on sale in late autumn.

But you’ll need deep pockets for the fuel bills. The Wraith averages just 20.2miles to the gallon. The company said: ‘It has the most powerful, involving driving experience of any Rolls-Royce in history.

The Wraith has the latest technology in its steering and suspension and in its voice-activated controls ¿ known as 'the on-board valet'

The Wraith has the latest technology in its steering and suspension and in its voice-activated controls ¿ known as 'the on-board valet'

Luxury: The Rolls will go on sale in the late autumn and revives a name that was first used in 1938

Luxury: The Rolls will go on sale in the late autumn and revives a name that was first used in 1938. Rolls-Royce was founded after sales and marketing genius Charles Stewart Rolls, a passionate racing driver, balloonist and aviator, met engineer Henry Royce at the Midland Hotel in Manchester on May 4, 1904, with the aim of creating the world’s finest car. BMW bought Rolls-Royce Motor Cars from Vickers PLC in 1998 following a bidding war with Volks-wagen, which secured Bentley. It employs 1,050 staff at its  boutique factory near Chichester, having taken on an extra 100 staff last year.