The Detroit Auto Show is under way, and I’ve yet to see anything as cool as the sexy future cars I blogged about recently. As the industry rises from the ashes with green tech as it’s savior (hopefully), I’m turning my attention to what really matters to most people: does it look cool?
This time around, I got some cool concepts for us loners out there who are looking for a solo ride…
The JetBike encapsulates everything I like about concept vehicles: it looks awesome and even the designer has no idea how it will work. How does it fly? How does it land? Designer Norio Fujikawa doesn’t really know, he’s just “envisioning a jet powered flying bike powered by an alternative method of propulsion!” So, whether it’s magnetic, nuclear, or something else, as soon as we get past the whole gravity thing, I’ll be taking this baby for a spin!
2. Yamaha EC-f Scooter
This electric-powered concept scooter premiered at the Tokyo Auto Show a few months back. It’s constructed of lightweight aluminum and runs on a lithium-ion battery, designed for city dwellers as an ecologically friendly commuter bike that’s easy to plug in and recharge. Still a concept, but this funky ride can’t be far from uncluttering the world’s crowded city streets.
3. Stingray JetBike
Designer Nils Poschwatta has managed to mash up a stingray and a jetbike to make a concept model that may come in very handy when we’re all living on Waterworld. And where can I get myself one of those sweet power suits?
4. The Jet Scooter
Another entry into the jetbike concept canon from DeviantArt designer Peanuts23, this Jet Skooter has more of a Vespa feel to it. For those less compelled by sportiness and looking for a little more butt room.
5. Project Nomad
Okay, so this one isn’t really a bike — more of a mechanical horse. But Project Nomad is pretty cool and probably closer to reality than the gravity defying jetbikes above. This concept by Jason Batters can gallop and climb through tough terrain. And forget the gas pump — by using a GPS navigation system, Project Nomad finds vegetation that it then eats and turns into fuel. Now that’s one wild (mechanical) ride!
See more Project Nomad in the video below:
Killer rides. I like the first one the best but I’d take any of them!
A mechanical horse that “finds vegetation and eats it”? Is this for real?
If the mechanical horse eats plants and converts them to energy, what’s to stop it from bucking you off and eating you?
James —
My guess is the AI. Until Skynet takes over, I imagine the horse will be well under the user’s control when riding.