Fliteboard, a prominent player in the electric hydrofoil surfboard realm, introduces its cutting-edge sub-brand, FLITElab*.
The launch aligns with the debut of FLITElab*'s inaugural product, the AMP board. The company might be looking forward to seriously taking prone hydrofoil board surfing to the next level with the newest product.
Prone Hydrofoil Board Surfing: A Niche Within a Niche
FLITElab* diverges from the broader electric hydrofoil board market to concentrate on prone hydrofoil board surfing, also known as prone foiling. Unlike traditional hydrofoil boarding, this sport initiates with the rider lying prone on the board, paddling to catch a wave. The hydrofoil then elevates them for an exhilarating foil-style ride, unlocking the potential to surf smaller or faster waves.
For those wondering why there's an asterisk on FLITElab*, Electrek says that it's the official branding that Fliteboard gave to its sub-brand. It's kind of weird to see it but it is what it is.
AMP Board: Where Electric Innovation Meets Prone Foiling
The most impressive feature of the AMP board is the incorporation of FLITElab*'s AMP Jet technology. Departing from the conventional placement above the hydrofoil, the electric thruster is ingeniously integrated into the board's body. This design ensures invisibility to the naked eye, reduces weight, and minimizes drag.
Furthermore, the AMP Jet is a self-contained and removable cartridge, providing optimal power for prone foilers, wingers, and downwind enthusiasts. Its strategic placement guarantees no added drag, preserving the board's performance integrity throughout the ride. This innovation allows riders to catch waves effortlessly, even on smaller boards.
"From the moment I started prone foiling I was amazed at the kind of waves I could ride; big, small, clean or messy it didn't matter, the only problem was catching them in the first place. The agile and responsive boards I love to ride just weren't up to the task of efficient paddling. The AMP system is our solution, the AMP Jet is integrated into the board and delivers the perfect amount of boost exactly when you need it, and is safely out of the way when you don't," FLITELab*'s project manager Christ Reynolds said about its first release.
Additional Motor Designs
FLITElab* introduces the AMP Mast, a sleek motor mounted to the mast, offering hydrofoil board surfers an extra boost for catching waves or swiftly returning to the lineup. This supplementary motor design enhances the overall experience, catering to the dynamic needs of riders.
User-Friendly Control and Customization
Controlling the AMP board is simplified through the FLITELab* LAUNCH Pad embedded in the board's nose. This innovative unit empowers riders to activate the AMP Jet for a power boost while maintaining a hands-free experience.
Moreover, the LAUNCH Pad allows users to customize the power strength and timing of the boost, incorporating an intelligent feature that monitors rider position and automatically cuts power when upright or in the event of a fall.
The Future of Prone Hydrofoil Surfing
While detailed technical specifications are currently limited, FLITElab* assures users that the AMP board's batteries comply with airline regulations, indicating a compact and travel-friendly design.
The system, optimized for quick wave-catching boosts, is anticipated to have lower battery demands compared to traditional electric surfboards.
When Will FLITElab*'s AMP Board Launch
Details regarding the release date and pricing of the AMP board are yet to be disclosed. In the meantime, FLITElab* offers a glimpse of the product through visually captivating videos set to the tunes of Fleetwood Mac.
As FLITElab* propels prone hydrofoil surfing into a new era with the AMP board, surfers await the full revelation of this groundbreaking electric innovation. It's a game-changer for those who want to break into this sport.
