Lexus teased the world with what it claimed was a real-life hoverboard back in June. The Slide, as Lexus called it, was said to use superconductors cooled by liquid nitrogen to create an electrical current capable of repelling magnets and thus, creating lift.
The teaser clip at the time didn't actually show anyone riding the hoverboard which of course led to many questioning its credibility. After all, the public has been lied to on multiple occasions so we have a right to be skeptical. Also, why would an automaker build a hoverboard?
The Lexus Slide, as it turns out, is indeed the real deal.
Lexus invited a number of journalists to a small beach town outside of Barcelona where they constructed a "hoverpark" to try the Slide out for themselves. The park is riddled with magnets just below its surface that allow the board to hover. Without them, the effect isn't possible. Strike one.
The Verge also points out that it's extremely difficult to ride. Processional skater Ross McGouran said he's been working at it for about six months and still hasn't fully mastered it. Strike two. Oh, and it has to be constantly cooled with liquid nitrogen. On a hot day, riders can get about 15 minutes out of the board before it needs to be recharged - a process that also takes about 15 minutes. Strike three.
As for why Lexus would create a hoverboard... it was built to film a commercial around (and generate a ton of media attention). That means it sadly is not for sale. Strike four.
But hey, it's a friggin' hoverboard!