World's first Star Wars-style hoverbike can hit 124mph and DOESN'T need propellors to fly
A company say they have developed a Star Wars-inspired speeder bike that can zoom to 124mph.
Poland-based Volonaut says their Airbike is the first 'hoverbike' vehicle of its kind that does not use propellers to fly.
Incredible videos show someone sitting on the device as it appears to effortlessly glide through the air.
At one point it hovers remarkably steady as the rider lifts a hand to wave at the camera.
The firm says: 'This groundbreaking design shares a lot of similarities to 'speeder bikes' featured in popular science-fiction movies.'
Fine technical details of the AirBike have not been revealed, with the company reporting the vehicle has 'just come out of stealth mode development' by Polish inventor and Volonaut founder Tomasz Patan.
However, describing it as a 'superbike for the skies', Volonaut say the AirBike is powered by jet propulsion.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Tomasz Patan (@volonaut)
Incredible videos show someone sitting on the device as it appears to effortlessly glide through the air
It has a 'proprietary stabilisation system' enhanced by a flight computer to provide automatic hover and ease of control for its rider.
They added: 'The current version of the vehicle is a result of many months of hard work, solved challenges and multiple failures.
'It took the founder several iterations to get to a working and flightworthy design on which he attempted the first stable flight in May 2023 in Poland.'
No timeline for a production model or cost have been released yet.
Instagram users praised the design, with one writing: 'The future is here! Best personal flying aircraft I've seen as far as design and flight.'
Another said: 'The generation that grew up on Star Wars was waiting for you, my friend.
'Please work a little faster. We're getting old but we want to go for a ride.'
Jet propulsion - which this aircraft uses - is a technology that drives vehicles forward using jets of gas.
The company say it's such a comfortable device, the rider will 'become one' with the flying machine.
They add it is seven times lighter than a typical motorbike thanks to the use of carbon fibre materials.
Commonly used throughout the Star Wars galaxy, speeder bikes are single-driver craft that move at very high speeds over 300 miles per hour.
The gravity-defying bikes use a fictional technology called 'repulsorlift' that push against a planet's gravity, allowing them to travel while dozens of feet off the ground.
They rely on thruster engines to provide forward thrust – but require great skill and fast reflexes, especially in a heavily-forested environment.
In the classic Star Wars film 'Return of the Jedi' (1983), heroes Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia are chased by stormtroopers around the fictional forest moon of Endor on speeder bikes.
Hover-based transportation heavily features across the Star Wars films, including 'The Phantom Menace' (1999) and 'The Force Awakens' (2015).
THE STAR WARS LANDSPEEDER
According to Wookiepedia, in the Star Wars world, the X-34 was an open-air/sealed cockpit civilian landspeeder manufactured by SoroSuub Corporation.
One famous owner was Luke Skywalker.
It featured holographic displays, a computer for ground navigation, and a number of repulsor counterbalances for smooth and steady travel over rough terrain.
Its maximum altitude was 1 meter (100 cm), but its usual cruising altitude was roughly 10 cm above ground level.
It was powered by three turbine engines to propel the vehicle forward, and a 'repulsorfield generator' housing was located behind the cockpit.
Its power circuit was located in front of the cockpit.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Auto Blog
7 minutes ago
- Auto Blog
2025 Tesla Model Y vs. 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5: 5 Key Differences
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a segment leader when it comes to EV charging speeds, outclassing competitors like the VW ID.4 with relative ease. Car insurance is Honda's latest new product offering, but other carmakers offer it as well. A pristine 2025 Mercedes-AMG G63 with just 2,200 miles is now for sale. This MANUFAKTUR-specced luxury SUV is a rare find, loaded with top-tier options and in immaculate condition. Battle of the electric SUV leaders The compact electric SUV segment has quickly become one of the most competitive areas in the automotive world, and two names dominate the conversation: the Tesla Model Y and the Hyundai IONIQ 5. Both models have helped define what mainstream electric crossovers should look like. Tesla's entry has been the world's best-selling EV for several years running, while Hyundai's IONIQ 5 has built a reputation as one of the most well-rounded and user-friendly electric SUVs on the market. Previous Pause Next Unmute 0:00 / 0:10 Full screen Hyundai reveals stunning IONIQ 9 with over 330 miles of range Watch More For the 2025 model year, both vehicles remain compelling, but they cater to slightly different buyers. Tesla leans heavily into its software ecosystem, range, and minimalist design, while Hyundai focuses on charging speed, comfort, and practicality. Here are the five biggest differences between the Tesla Model Y and the Hyundai IONIQ 5. 1. Range and charging performance One of the first questions EV shoppers ask is how far they can go on a charge, and in this respect, the Tesla Model Y holds a slight edge. The Long Range all-wheel-drive version offers an EPA-estimated 327 miles of range, with real-world figures typically coming in close to that number. Charging speeds are capped at about 250 kilowatts on Tesla's Supercharger network, which translates to around 169 miles of range gained in just 15 minutes. By providing your email address, you agree that it may be used pursuant to Arena Group's Privacy Policy. 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Limited — Source: Hyundai The Hyundai IONIQ 5 does not reach the same maximum range on paper, though it comes surprisingly close. Depending on trim and drivetrain, its EPA ratings span from 245 to 318 miles, and independent testing has shown the dual-motor Limited trim exceeding its official estimate, reaching 282 miles in the real world. Where Hyundai really shines is in charging. Thanks to its 800-volt electrical architecture, the IONIQ 5 can accept up to 350 kilowatts, adding as much as 178 miles of range in 15 minutes and reaching 80 percent charge in about 18 minutes under ideal conditions. The end result is a tradeoff: Tesla offers the longest single-charge driving distance, while Hyundai provides some of the fastest recharging times in the industry. 2. Interior design and technology Tesla and Hyundai take very different approaches to the cabin experience. The Model Y follows the brand's trademark minimalist style, dominated by a 15.4-inch central touchscreen that controls nearly every function in the vehicle. Physical buttons are almost entirely absent, and even the instrument cluster has been folded into the main display. Standard equipment includes dual wireless charging pads, a 16-speaker audio system, and access to Tesla's unique software ecosystem, which brings constant over-the-air updates and, for an extra cost, the brand's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) suite. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Tesla Model Y Juniper The Hyundai IONIQ 5, on the other hand, blends futuristic design with practicality. Its cockpit features two 12.3-inch displays—one for the gauge cluster and one for infotainment—along with physical climate controls and a mix of touch and button-based inputs. Unlike Tesla, Hyundai supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which remain key conveniences for many drivers. Higher trims add a surround-view camera, a head-up display, and vehicle-to-load capability, which allows the car's battery to power external devices or even a small campsite. While Tesla's cabin feels cutting-edge in its simplicity, Hyundai earns points for usability and features that are more familiar to most drivers. The two philosophies highlight the brands' different priorities: Tesla wants to streamline the driving experience into its software, while Hyundai aims to balance tech with everyday convenience. 3. Cargo and utility space Utility is another area where the two EVs diverge. The Tesla Model Y stands out with its generous storage capacity, offering 29 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and a substantial 71.4 cubic feet when the second row is folded flat. On top of that, Tesla provides a 4.1-cubic-foot front trunk, which is large enough for grocery bags or small luggage. 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Tesla Model Y Juniper The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is no slouch, but its cargo figures are more modest. Behind the second row, there is 26.3 cubic feet of space, and folding the rear seats expands it to 58.5 cubic feet. The frunk, meanwhile, is quite small and designed mostly to store the charging cable. While the IONIQ 5's cabin feels spacious and airy thanks to its flat floor and sliding center console, Tesla ultimately offers more raw volume for families who regularly haul gear. The Model Y also has an optional third-row seat in some configurations, though it remains more of an emergency-use solution than a true seven-passenger setup. Still, the added flexibility underlines Tesla's utility advantage over Hyundai. 4. Pricing, value, and incentives Pricing plays a critical role in the EV buying decision, especially as federal and state incentives come into play. For 2025, the Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD starts at $50,630, while the rear-wheel-drive Long Range version is priced at $46,630. Depending on configuration, the Model Y may qualify for up to $7,500 in federal tax credits. 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N — Source: 2025 Hyundai The Hyundai IONIQ 5 comes in at a slightly lower starting point, with prices beginning around $44,200. It also qualifies for the same federal credits in certain trims, which can bring its effective cost below that of the Model Y. Beyond sticker price, Hyundai adds value with its warranty coverage. Buyers receive a five-year, 60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, compared with Tesla's four-year, 50,000-mile basic coverage and eight-year, 120,000-mile limited battery warranty. When looking purely at upfront cost and long-term warranty, the IONIQ 5 comes out ahead. Tesla, however, balances the scale with its more extensive standard equipment list and software-driven features that continue to evolve long after purchase. 5. Ride comfort, styling, and driving feel Finally, there is the question of how these vehicles actually drive and feel on the road. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has earned praise for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and comfortable suspension tuning. It favors a relaxed, family-friendly demeanor over outright sportiness. The styling follows a retro-futuristic theme, with pixel-inspired lighting and sharp lines that make it one of the more distinctive EVs on the market. Inside, the flat floor and adjustable center console further emphasize spaciousness and comfort. 2025 Tesla Model Y — Source: Tesla The Tesla Model Y, by contrast, feels more athletic. Acceleration is brisk, with the Long Range AWD model reaching 60 miles per hour in just over four seconds. Steering is sharper, and the vehicle's stance makes it feel closer to a performance crossover than a family hauler. The tradeoff comes in ride comfort, where some drivers have noted that the suspension can feel firm and the steeply raked rear hatch compromises visibility. Both approaches will appeal to different buyers. Tesla caters to those who want speed and sporty handling from their EV, while Hyundai's IONIQ 5 is better suited for drivers who prioritize comfort and a relaxed daily commute. Final thoughts The Tesla Model Y and Hyundai IONIQ 5 are two of the strongest choices in the compact electric SUV market, but they excel in different areas. Tesla continues to lead in maximum driving range, cargo versatility, and access to its unmatched Supercharger network. Hyundai counters with faster charging, lower pricing, a longer warranty, and a more comfortable ride. 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Tesla Model Y Juniper Ultimately, the decision comes down to priorities. Shoppers who want the longest range possible, cutting-edge software, and extra cargo flexibility will find the Model Y hard to beat. Those who prefer a balance of comfort, user-friendly tech, and overall value will see the IONIQ 5 as a better fit. Both vehicles represent the direction the industry is heading, and both make a strong case for being the EV to park in your driveway in 2025. About the Author Elijah Nicholson-Messmer View Profile
Daily Mail
8 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
Couple selling £130 tickets to their Parisian wedding explain why having strangers on the guest list 'could be fun'
A French couple are among the first to try out an unusual app that allows strangers to pay them for an invitation to their wedding - with the soon-to-be newlyweds charging £130 for tickets. Jennifer, 48, and her husband Paulo, 50, are selling tickets to their Parisian wedding via Invitin, a France-based app that lets paying guests attend a wedding of their choice, The Guardian reported. It's no secret that weddings cost an arm and a leg, so when Jennifer, an actress, and her ex-athlete husband stumbled upon the invention at a wedding fair in Paris, they welcomed the opportunity to recoup their costs. For those wincing at the thought of allowing intruders access to the most intimate moment of their lives, Jennifer said the app uses a filtering process to ensure paying guests meet certain standards. 'I thought: "Woah, that's quite something", having people you don't know at your wedding,' she recalled her first thought when she discovered Invitin. 'But we took the flyer, went away to think about it and decided why not? If we can see the profiles beforehand on the app and choose who to accept, it could be something quite original to do'. Five paying guests have purchased tickets to Jennifer and Paulo's wedding through the fledgling app and will join the soon-to-be bride and groom's friends and family - including their 18-month-old son - at their French nuptials, taking the total number of guests to 100. Ticket holders will be permitted to enjoy the full day of festivities, including a posh dinner, drinks, live music. and the wedding ceremony itself. They will also adhere to the event's 'chic and elegant' dress code - something the couple made sure of while vetting profiles. Jennifer - who met Paulo on a dating app during the pandemic - added that the unconventional guest list is about much more than just making money, as the couple intends to utilise it as a matchmaking project for their friends. 'We have a lot more single women friends coming to our wedding than single men, so we thought this could balance things out a bit,' she told the newspaper. 'Although it will help a bit in terms of the cost of things like decoration and the dress. It's also because we thought it could be fun and we're extroverts and open to sharing things'. Invitin is a start-up project that was founded in France by Katia Lekarski in April 2025. It allows users to simply browse weddings and book a seat, allowing thrillseekers to 'discover different cultures and venues' through the institution of marriage. She revealed to the publication that so far six marriages in Paris were due to make use of Invitin by inviting unknown guests to their ceremonies. The topic itself is a polarising one, with one bride-to-be being labelled 'tacky' for wanting to charge guests $50 per person to attend her wedding. Perhaps invitees took it personally as they weren't strangers but rather friends and family of the bride that she had personally invited to the ceremony. 'We all know weddings are very expensive,' the woman said in an online group. 'What do you think about charging guests $50 to come?' The bride thought that making people pay was a bright idea that would cut down on food costs - without limiting the guest list. 'RSVP with your $50...I don't think it's tacky. It's practical and good business,' she said. People were quick to slam the bride and vented their outrage online - with many calling it 'ridiculous' and 'cheap' to expect guests to foot the bill. 'Wow. Yes, we know you don't think it's tacky - you just want to be told you're right. And you are not' one woman said. 'This is tacky AF. Can't afford it, don't do it!' another agreed. 'Here's my thought: Have the wedding you can actually afford!' a third chimed in. Others suggested that an attendance fee for a wedding simply wasn't good value for money. 'Girl, I don't even go to bars with a cover charge,' one woman said. 'I can get better food and entertainment for my $50 a head,' another added. One man was appalled at the American woman for thinking that a wedding was meant to be 'good business' - and not a celebration of love. Another person said that the 'entitled' bride didn't understand the meaning of the word guest. A New York couple who insisted on marrying in style had 80 per cent of their guests RSVP 'unable to attend', after they attempted to charge them $333 each. Nova and Reemo Styles had their hearts set on a wedding in the city's famed St Patrick's Cathedral - but discovered that the church alone would cost $150,000. The couple decided to think outside of the box and came up with the idea of getting their guests to cover the cost for them. 'Let's put the stress on the guests, and let's sell tickets for a wedding', Nova said. Thousands of people were shocked over the influencer couple's 'entitled' behaviour. 'Talk about TACKY!' one man wrote. 'I would never think of making someone pay to come to my wedding! That is just ridiculous'. 'These people are cheapskates! They want the bling, but are too cheap to pay for it' another added.
The Sun
8 minutes ago
- The Sun
Fuming airplane passenger reveals the ‘selfish' flying trend she had to put up with as traveller ‘sits in her lap'
A WOMAN has been left furious after an airplane passenger reclined her seat. Simone, from the UK, took to social media to share her experience and it caused controversy online. 2 2 The young woman seemed to be making her way back from a holiday when the event took place. She filmed part of the altercation which took place on the flight. In the clip, she was sat down with her table having some of the in-flight meals and a drink. But she claims she was rudely interrupted by the passenger in front who decided to recline their chair. Simone told the other flyer: "This is an airplane. Please let me know where you recline on the airplane." "What part of this seat can you recline on?" she asked again. Like with most economy tickets, there was little leg room for anyone and Simone was not happy with the woman reclining into her already cramped space. In the comments, Simone claimed the passenger was also 'pushing hard and further into my leg.' "She basically wants to sit in my lap," she captioned the post. The video posted to her TikTok account @ msimonexo went viral with over 285k views and 4,900 likes. The deeply selfish holiday trend sweeping Europe's beaches this summer – and it's WORSE than sunbed hogging Plenty of people were quick to weigh in on the situation. Many branded the reclining passenger as 'selfish' while others said Simone should upgrade her ticket if she wants extra space. One person wrote: "I thought everyone knows that you shouldn't recline when people have their trays down." "Buy extra legroom next time," penned a third. Plane etiquette IF you're planning on going away any time soon, you'll need to pay attention to the following unwritten plane etiquette rules... RECLINING SEAT: Podcast host and etiquette expert Nick Leighton explained that you shouldn't recline your seat if the passenger behind you is working on their laptop. He said: "Nobody likes their laptop snapped in half." Before you recline your seat, it's best to check to see what the passenger behind you is doing. If they are on a laptop, ask before you move your seat back. FEET: A flight attendant told The Sun: "Your boarding card tells you a number and a letter, this will be the reserved seat that you have paid for. "Your feet, which are attached to your body, should do their best to reside within this space and stay far away from anyone else. "If you do insist on stretching out, please make sure your feet are covered up." CHAT: TV travel expert Samantha Brown explained that conversations from strangers aren't welcome, suggesting that others shouldn't expect a chat. She added: "I'm not a talker. Plane time is me time." Meanwhile a fourth said: "Anyone that reclines is selfish."
