Portable Wind Turbine Ventyra R1 Exceeds Kickstarter Goal by 90x, Raising Over $140,000
The Ventyra R1, a foldable portable wind turbine, has raised over $140,000 on Kickstarter, 90 times its $1,500 goal, promising 35-minute phone charges in a breeze.
The device is designed for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to recharge gadgets anywhere, provided there is a strong breeze. It delivers 50 watts of power output, with a 75-watt peak load and 12V DC support. Based on the manufacturer's testing, it can charge a phone in about 35 minutes when running at top speed. The turbine starts generating power at a wind speed of just 6.7 mph (3 meters per second).
The R1 includes an integrated power hub for plugging in devices, a tripod stand, a carry bag, and four ground stakes for anchoring. It can be set up on a balcony as an alternative home power source or used on remote adventures. Multiple R1 units can be connected to the same hub to capture more energy, and bundles with solar panels are available. The Kickstarter page says the turbine is designed to complement solar rather than replace it, allowing for a more flexible system for changing weather, overnight use, and longer off-grid stays.
One notable feature is automatic wind alignment: a tail vane adjusts the rotor position without manual intervention. However, the product page does not mention weatherproofing, and TechRadar notes it may not survive heavy rain or strong gusts. As with any crowdfunded product, there is no guarantee the final version will look or work as shown.
Backers can reserve a unit for an early bird price of $179, with shipping scheduled for December. TechRadar also mentions an alternative, the Shine Turbine, now in its second version, which is available for preorder on Indiegogo for $399.