Subscribe now

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

James Dyson highlighting the simplicity of the new motor compared to a more complex DC motor

(Image: Dyson)

The impeller motor's powerful permanent magnet uses half the power of its predecessor.

The impeller motor’s powerful permanent magnet uses half the power of its predecessor.

(Image: Dyson)

(Image: Dyson

(Image: Dyson

New commercial products can now be made smaller, more efficient and more reliable.

New commercial products can now be made smaller, more efficient and more reliable.

(Image: Dyson)

WHEN the Wright brothers set out to develop the first controllable, powered, heavier-than-air flying machine at the turn of the last century, they had to invent almost everything they needed to get their Flyer off the ground. They had little choice: existing glider wing designs were certainly not up to…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop