Motorised suitcase for adults hits the market

A Chicago entrepreneur has invented the world's first ride-on suitcase for adults ... but not all travellers are impressed.

If you've ever made the desperate dash through the airport to catch your flight in time, this could be the invention you've been waiting for.

A luggage company has created a way to get you to that gate faster — a motorised, ride-on suitcase dubbed the Modobag.

The innovative invention features discreet footrests, a steering pole which is folded away until you need it, and of course, brakes — in case of collision.

After an hour of charging, the suitcase has the ability to travel for around nine kilometres before coming to a stop.

The Modobag comes with USB ports and a battery pack so you can charge your devices while on the go.

The special suitcase is only available for pre-order through the crowdfunding site Indie Go Go for US$1495 (NZ$2054), to be shipped in January 2017.

Invented by Chicago entrepreneur Kevin O'Donnell, the Modobag was inspired by ride-on suitcases for children.

"Why can't we ride our luggage and get to where we're going faster with less stress?" he wondered.

He worked together with a motorcyclist friend to bring his idea to life and has taken the Modobag for a test drive at several busy airports.

"From the first-time traveller to the veteran flight attendant, there is widespread agreement that Modobag will help make travel more functional and fun," he said.

While it's been lauded by some big names — Jimmy Kimmel and the Big Bang Theory's Kaley Cuoco were spotted riding the cases down the Hollywood Walk of Fame — not everyone is impressed.

"Only an American could have had this idea," one person said after watching the invention in action.

"Unless you travel at 2am what airfield has that much free room?" another said.

- nzherald.co.nz