It seems that 1989’sBack to the Future Part IIis getting closer and closer to reality, with auto makerLexusunveiling the sci-fi gadget fans have been waiting years to see, an actual, workinghoverboard, dubbed Slide. Lexus has teamed with “world leading experts in super conductive technology to create one of the most advanced Hoverboards ever developed” (thoughDoc Brownisn’t mentioned by name). This project came through Lexus' ‘Amazing in Motion Campaign," that highlights the “creativity and innovation” of Lexus. But here’s the bad news: TheLexus press releasereveals that you won’t be able to buy this hoverboard at all, since it is just a prototype. Here’s whatMark Templin, executive vice president, Lexus International, had to say in a statement.
“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 Hoverboard operates using magnetic levitation to achieve amazing frictionless movement. Liquid nitrogen cooled superconductors and permanent magnets combine to allow Lexus to create the impossible. Wrapped in a design that is uniquely Lexus, the Hoverboard features the iconic Lexus spindle grille signature shape and uses materials found in the luxury car brand, from the high tech to natural bamboo. Testing of the Lexus Hoverboard will be taking place in Barcelona, Spain over the coming weeks.
Engadgetdid some more digging and confirmed that, in the video below, where this Slide is seen hovering inches above the ground at a skate park, there was a metal surface underneath the concrete, which means that you won’t be able to take this everywhere, especially over water, like inBack to the Future 2. Lexus will debut new videos for the Slide hoverboard each week, as testing continues in Spain, so stay tuned. In the meantime, check out the first video and three photos of the Slide hoverboard, and let us know what you think about this latest step intofuture technology.
