Falling somewhat outside the scope of normal dive gear is this new, award-winning concept vehicle dubbed the Volitan from Turkish design company DesignNobis.

Reminiscent more of an X-wing Fighter from the movie Star Wars than a normal boat, this concept craft (meaning it’s just a design, so you can’t actually buy one yet…drat!) is a set of blueprints for a lightweight, futuristic sailing vessel that incorporates solid sails, solar energy and wind power so you can be green and clean, yet oh-so-mean.

An onboard computer (what self-respecting spaceship sailing the seven seas doesn’t have a sophisticated onboard computer, preferably one that speaks to you in a sultry, yet intelligent voice?) controls the upper wings to ensure optimal generation of solar- and wind-derived power without compromising speed and cruising comfort.

The computer also stabilises the vehicle in up to 60-knot winds, so you don’t inadvertently end up doing one of those acrobatic Luke-esque manoeuvres that made R2D2 scream like a little girl droid.

The motors on the lower in-water wings also adjust to provide optimal performance and balance, meaning the vessel should be nimble enough to turn on a dime in order to zap unidentified incoming vessels. (No word yet on standard armament configuration, but we’d expect nothing less than precise high-energy particle beam weaponry.)

Now all we need is someone to come up with a scuba suit based on the chic Darth Vader look and an amphibious assault vehicle that resembles an Imperial Tie Fighter.

Who knew diving could be so much fun?

This entry was posted on Monday, February 4th, 2008 at 4:00 pm and is filed under Gear.