FAQ
This sounds like total rubbish, does it really work?
Yes. 99% of people don’t get it, 99% of the rest just think they get it.
Are there practical applications for your technology?
“Probably“. We are exploring different paths to optimize the phenomenon.
How do the naysayers describe you?
Liars, charlatans, bamboozlers, idiots, hornswogglers, (JOBY, Google, Sportvision and our Moms still think we’re swell.)
Can anyone verify you guys are legitimate?
Bob Dill (designer/pilot) previous land sailing speed record holder has seen the vehicle in action and understands it. NALSA is the official rule-making body that certified the record.
My brain hurts, basically how does it work?
Despite appearances, the prop isn’t turned directly by the wind. As the vehicle starts to move (pushed by the wind), the wheels turn the propeller (which operates like any other prop) in the ever present tailwind. It works because we are rolling across the ground, operating in a tailwind and the overall efficiencies of the systems. We have moved across the ground 2.85 times faster than the wind directly downwind. Power = thrust x velocity, and we have a lower velocity the prop is working on, it can generate more thrust for a fixed amount of input power. Downwind the prop travels through less air distance than the wheel travels over ground. (explanation by equations)