Chicago Developers Tout Luxury Two-Seat Hovercraft

Mercier-Jones, a one-year-old startup in Chicago, says it will begin deliveries this summer of its $75,000 Supercraft luxury hovercraft.

The open-air vehicle features motorcycle-type 1+1 seating and a hybrid powertrain that can propel it at speeds as high as 40 mph over land, water, sand, snow, mud, gravel and marshland. The amphibian has a range of 120 miles.

The Supercraft is propelled by two 42-hp DC electric motors. Each drives a six-blade fan lurking behind a large decorative grille on either side of the body. A rear-mounted 60-hp engine-generator powers the motors. Additional power boost is provided by a 48-volt lithium-ion battery.

The 700-lb amphibious craft consists of a welded chrome alloy tube chassis, carbon-fiber intake ducts and composite body panels with wood trim. The body is 14 feet long, 7 feet wide and 4 feet tall.

When underway, a polyester air suspension skirt enables the Supercraft to hover at an altitude of 7 inches. The driver uses a carlike steering and foot pedals to accelerate and brake (with reverse thrust).

Amenities include refrigerated drink wells, a touch-screen display, Bluetooth and wi-fi connectivity and hands-free phone integration. Among the options are GPS navigation, an audio system, seat heaters and winch.

The fledging company says it will offer an initial production run of 10 cars in May will begin building 50 more in October.