'World's first REAL hoverboard'
Twenty-five years ago, Marty McFly got imaginations soaring when he hopped onto a hoverboard -- a skateboard with no need for wheels -- in Back to the Future II.
Twenty-five years ago, Marty McFly got imaginations soaring when he hopped onto a hoverboard -- a skateboard with no need for wheels -- in Back to the Future II.
The dream is finally getting off the ground, according to a Kickstarter campaign that has kicked up headlines around the world.
"Hendo hoverboards -- world's first REAL hoverboard" boasts the title of a California couple's pitch that includes video of a skateless skateboard being demonstrated.
No, this isn't a commemorative movie souvenir.
Nor is it a hoax like the Funny or Die video that seemed to show skateboard legend Tony Hawk and various celebrities riding a "HUVr" hoverboard.
There is a catch, though.
The device, with manipulates magnetic fields, can levitate only above a smooth metal surface.
Sidewalks and streets are off-limits for the foreseeable future, though the idea of creating a special park for hoverboards seems feasible.
There are serious possibilties, too, according to the campaign, which offered a variety of samples and is illustrated with copious drawing.
Imagine a warehouse where heavy containers can float and be moved with ease. (No push of a finger needed ... the lift can also push in a desired direction.)
Inventor Greg Henderson (thus "Hendo") told the New York Times he was inspired not by a movie but by the idea of creating floating buildings so they'd be earthquake-proof.
Contact staff writer Peter Mucha at 215-854-4342 or pmucha@phillynews.com. Follow @petemucha on Twitter.