French custom vehicle builders Lazareth
have come out with a flying motorcycle. Dubbed the Lazareth LMV 496, the flying
vehicle is currently in prototype stage and videos have been released demonstrating
its capabilities.
Known for its Maserati-powered Lazareth
LM847, a V-eight powered, 470 hp, four-wheeled motorcycle with twin,
independent front hub steering, the LMV 496 borrows the same styling cues but
adds four kerosene fed jet turbines into the mix. The video shows the LMV 496
in tethered flight as well as a short landing video, indicating it works as a
proof of concept.
The turbines are located in the hubs of
the LMV 496’s four wheels, with the wheels functioning as normal when the bike
is being rolled around. A flip of a switch places the LMV 496 on four landing
legs and the four wheels rotate to orientate the turbines vertically, providing
lift.
Motive power for the LMV 496 comes from an
electric motor but for flight, the quartet of turbines provides 1,300
horsepower which translates to 285 kg of thrust. There was no demonstration of
the LMV 496 flight controls but we assume directional control and stability is
achieved much in the same way as a drone.
Also considering how fuel thirsty jet
turbines are, we wonder if enough Jet A-1 can be carried on board for more than
a short hop. Lazareth invites enquiries for purchase of the LMV 496 which will
be produced in a limited edition of only five units on its website, via email
or by telephone.
