Manta5 made its debut at CES2020. Viodi caught up with Manta5’s Events Manager, Stacey Kitchen. She has been testing and promoting Manta5’s water toy, the Hydrofoiler XE-1, in different locales around the world. With a cruise speed of 9 MPH and a top speed of 12 MPH (according to their website), it zips along at a nice clip.
At $8,990 (according to their website), this electric-assist bike/hydrofoil compares favorably to the cost of a powered watercraft; plus, the fuel is virtually free (some electricity and leg power) and it folds up into a package that can fit in most vehicles.
According to a recent blog post, and confirming what Kitchen states in the above video, the first production units will be arriving in the United States in the next couple of weeks. This could be the perfect distraction and water sport in a world of physical distancing.
Added 7/2/20
In a follow-up email, Louis Wilks, Manta5’s marketing manager, indicates that the Hydrofoiler XE-1 handles up to approximately one meter of mild chop. If you decide to take a swim, he reports that this unique water bike will float. When you are ready to leave your deepwater position, you perform what Manta5 calls a submerged launch. Finally, you can expect to ride around for up to 60 minutes on its maximum assist level.
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