Here are a pair of bodyboards which you may have not heard of from China’s “water entertainment products, marine rescue facilities and unmanned waterborne systems” maker, FZBlue. The first is called AEF Electric Bodyboard a bodyboard style, electrically-powered flotation device for leisure and the second, called UEF, is the lifesaver variant of the first.
AEF is described was a “water entertainment device” (but not quite the audio/visual entertainment) that supports 360-degree operation. AEF Electric Bodyboard sports a hydrodynamic design and it is powered by a pair of electric motors, each driving a thruster located on either side of the board. AEF makes a top speed of 1.6 m/s (about 3.1 knots, or 3.6 mph/5.8 km/h) – provided if the person weighs no more than 75 kilograms (165 lbs) and the device itself weighs just 13 kilograms (29 lbs). Interestingly, unlike most electric bodyboards, AEF is designed to pull along up to 2 person.
Other notables include 5 speeds (presumable all forward speeds), an LCD screen to display the basic telemetry of the vehicle, thumb-operated control conveniently located next to the handle, body detection infrared sensing that cuts off motors if user is off the board, an onboard battery system good for up to 90 minutes operation per charge, and finally, a soft rubber nose to cushion impact from, god forbids, any collision. The UEF is pretty much the same, except that it boasts a remote control function allowing it to be dispatched remotely to save swimmers from drowning.
The FZBlue AEF Electric Bodyboard retails for 5,699 yuan (equivalent to around US$850) in China. As for the FZBlue UEF Electric Bodyboard, the retail price is unknown at this point. If you happen to be in and around Hong Kong, FZBlue will be showcasing Hong Kong Electronics Fair 2019 in Wan Chai, Hong Kong, between April 13 and 16, 2019 (Booth 1CON-043).
All images courtesy of FZBlue.
