Copterpack reveals electric personal helicopter
While we're still talking about electric motorcycling, personal flight could become the next big thing in transportWhile the motorcycle industry appears to be headed for an electric future, the rapid development of personal transport technology could take us all the way to the skies.
An Australian company has invented an electric backpack that acts like a personal helicopter. The Copterpack is designed as an environmentally-friendly alternative to a jet pack.
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Information on the new invention is scarce, but we can tell from photos and videos that the device is powered by two rather large propellers and a battery-powered backpack. It also looks like the vehicle is steered via two joysticks.
According to the Copterpack website, the gizmo is ‘an electric backpack helicopter with a self-levelling autopilot’. The website also states that the ‘lightweight airframe is constructed from carbon-fibre honeycomb.
So, the big question – does it actually work? Well, unless the Copterpack team have us all fooled and have used special effects in the promo video, then the answer is yes. The video titled ‘First Flight’ shows the pilot rising above the coastline and moving quite swiftly in the air.
Interestingly, the pilot is wearing a complete set of motorcycle gear in the video. We’re not sure if that is standard kit for personal helicopter use, but we’re sure gear manufacturers will be rubbing their hands together if this thing takes off…figuratively, that is.
Of course, this gadget isn’t entirely unique – there have been many attempts at jetpack-like devices over the years, with some proving more successful than others. There has also been attempts at flying motorcycles, like this Aero-X Hoverbike.
The Copterpack sure looks like a neat bit of tech, and the thought of flying to work certainly does have its appeal. But given Australia strict aviation regulations for drones, we’re not sure CASA is going to love the idea of personal helicopters.
Head to www.copterpack.com.au for more information.
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