this ultralight teardrop trailer is made from chicken feathers

new mexico-based startup earth traveler has revealed its latest teardrop trailer using an ultralight composite made from chicken feathers. featuring a skeletal archway, designed to put minimal strain on the engine and wallet, the ‘T250LX’ weighs only 298 pounds and can be towed by fuel-efficient vehicles including electric cars.

images courtesy of earth traveler

earth traveler is able to achieve an impressively light weight whilst also maintaining a decent level of strength. according to founder and artist angel irland, the feather-based material – which provides insulation and weather protection – offers a strength that is similar to carbon fiber when set in resin. meanwhile load-bearing structural elements are made out of traditional composite and corecell.

the four-person fiber trailer is essentially a traveling tent platform which can be adapted to suit the needs of its inhabitants. the trailer features full-length gull-wing panels that open at the front and rear to expand interior headroom and space. customers can also add on compatible tents to increase their living space as well as kitchen amenities, UV awnings, and off-roading components.

as new atlas reports, founder and artist angel irlanda sought to design a camping shelter that could be towed by his fiat 500. a prototype was made out of wood and fiberglass, and now the company is planning to launch two different teardrop models.

earth traveler has also designed a full carbon version – the T2300 – which has an estimated weight of 216 pounds and comes in at a price of $30,975. the T250LX is more affordable, costing just $10,000.