The Aeolus airship is an exciting passenger vehicle concept to come out of the Braunschweig University Degree Show 2008. The vehicle, conceived by student designer Christopher Ottersbach, is intended to allow easy travel close to the earth without the need of any type of infrastructure.
The airship is actually full of helium, and like a balloon, it floats and is moved along by the wind and directed with dual side-mounted propellers. There is room for up to 4 people, and in theory the Aeolus can stay afloat for up to 2 weeks.
Think of the possibilities of travel without gas and without the need for a road. Granted, it’s a big ‘boat’ to be parking, and you’re not going to break any speed limits getting to your destination.
The dreamy photos of the Aeolus (Greek god of wind) in a Sahara-like background are stunning, and almost have a prehistoric feel to them.
Road-Free Passenger Vehicles
'Aeolus' Vertically Designed Airship Concept
Trend Themes
1. Road-free Travel - Aeolus airship is a prime example of the trend towards infrastructure-free transportation.
2. Helium Propulsion - Aeolus airship highlights the emerging trend of using lighter-than-air gases for propulsion.
3. Sustainable Transport - Aeolus airship embodies the growing trend of sustainable transport alternatives that have less impact on the environment.
Industry Implications
1. Aviation Industry - Aeolus airship presents an opportunity for the aviation industry to explore new designs that require no infrastructure, resulting in more efficient and sustainable travel.
2. Tourism Industry - Aeolus airship offers opportunities for the tourism industry to provide unique, eco-friendly travel experiences with minimal environmental impact.
3. Transportation Industry - Aeolus airship creates opportunities for the transportation industry to consider innovative transport modes that are sustainable, cheaper, and more flexible.