Wheeebo is an inflatable disc (like a stand-up paddle) with a diameter of 1.50 m designed for fun on the water. Developed by the Japanese engine manufacturer Yanmar, this inflatable saucer is only at the prototype stage and should be on the market by summer 2020. Accessible to the greatest number of people - from the youngest to the oldest - the Wheeebo can be used on calm water bodies: lakes, beachsides, flat seas, rivers, ponds, etc.
Its use is simple and requires no training. To move, simply move the weight of your body from one side to the other. By bending in the desired direction, the on-board sensors detect the movement and adjust the position of the propeller in the new direction to be followed. An intuitive use to please everyone, but which will nevertheless require a certain sense of balance.
You can stand (like a paddle), but also sit (for the smallest jigs). This last position will be particularly suitable for the younger ones, who will be delighted to be able to play on the water when there is little bottom.
With its electric motor, the Wheeebo reaches a maximum speed of 3 knots. It has two acceleration modes, chosen by remote control. After a full charge of the batteries, this water toy will have an autonomy of one hour. The manufacturer does not specify the charging time at this time.
This inflatable saucer is still in the testing and marketing development phase. Thus, we do not yet know much about price, marketing, etc. But we're going to follow the birth of the Wheeebo closely. "We don't yet know where we can take advantage of Wheeedo since it is still in the testing and marketing studies phase. Japan will of course be on one of the marketing sites, like France" explains Tatsuhiro Sato, Manager at Yanmar. Before adding: "As it stands, Wheeedo will not be sold to private individuals but to hotels and leisure facilities."
