Concept Vehicle Uses Wing In Ground-Effect Technology

If speed, load-hauling and range represent the trifecta of motorized flight, many would argue you'll find that sweet spot in wing-in-ground-effect technology, which has been kicking around for almost half a century. The Soviets tried it with their eight-engine Black Sea behemoths. Variations on the Alexander Lippisch-designed reverse delta single-engine skimmers have been spotted in coastal and riverine settings from China to Australia.

Now, a London-based company, Exclin Ltd., has announced a next-generation, fuel-efficient concept WIG called the Vertex Recreational Vehicle. The company saysthe vehicle will "offer pilots an exhilarating, low-altitude flight oversea."

They claim a "patented Vertex Lift System" technology will give the vehicle the ability to take off vertically from a ground surface while still offering the flexibility of conventional takeoff and landing on ground or water.

The Vertex vehicle will be able to fly at high speeds within meters of the water's surface; altitudes are typically only half the total wingspan. They say the Vertex vehicle will be easy to fly and require only limited training compared to an aircraft operating in the system, giving it a low barrier to entry. To meet the specific needs of recreational pilots, it will be possible to separate the main wing from the body, allowing the Vertex Recreational Vehicle to be towed behind a car. Classified as a "WIG type B" maritime vehicle, Exclin says "the Vertex Recreational Vehicle will be competitive to fly, operate and own."

For more information about Exclin or the Vertex Recreational Vehicle, click here.