The company FLITEB from Australia developed the Fliteboard – an electric hydrofoil which lets you fly above the water controlled by a remote control in your hand. The eFoil board comes in 3 versions. All models are using the same modular components such as the mast which is available in 60 cm and 75 cm length. While the shorter mast is easier for beginners the larger mast is better for choppy water and aggressive turns. Both sizes are available in either aluminum or black color.
>> Fliteboard Air – The Air model is the largest E-Foil Surfboard with 198 cm length and 76 cm width and is an inflatable board. It has more volume which makes it easier to stand on. However, it has more resistance on the water surface than the carbon fiber models which makes it actually smoother to switch to the standard model once you get a feeling for the foil. The Air is ideal for rentals and yacht owners.
>> Fliteboard (Standard) – The standard model would fit for most of the riders. It is the allrounder with a length of 172 cm and a width of 71 cm. This motorized eFoil Board has a carbon fiber hull and is available in black, white and ash.
>> Fliteboard Pro – The pro model of their Electric Hydrofoil line is shorter with a length of only 152 cm and a width of 62 cm. It is designed for lighter riders for higher speeds and more aggressive carving. It has also a carbon fiber hull and is available in black, white and ash.
The batteries come also in 2 choices. There is a sport version which is lighter, but has less range. The Cruiser version which is about 350 EUR more expensive is probably the better choice for most riders as it gives 1 hour riding time. In addition, you have 2 choices for the wings. The Cruiser wing and the Fly wing, which is smaller for higher speeds up to 40 km/h.
Flite features
One of the unique features of Fliteboard E-Foils (at least by spring 2019) are the virtual gears which can be set on the remote control. You have 20 gears in order to limit your maximum speed. This is helpful for beginners because once they figure out the right speed, they can always pull the full throttle and don’t need to worry about keeping the speed constant. The remote control has a very bright display which informs you about speed, travel distance, battery charge and of course warns you if something would be wrong. Of course, it is water-proof and is secured by a small leash to your wrist. The hand controller is also your “virtual security leash” as the powered eFoil board will automatically stop once the Bluetooth connection is lost. This happens right away if you fall into the water. You also need to arm the electric Hydrofoil Surfboard with the remote control by holding it to a sensor at the top of the E-Foil board and then pull the trigger within 5 seconds. Otherwise, the motor will not start. This is to protect you in case you pull the trigger by mistake before you are ready to ride.
