In the 1990s, the idea of electric RC planes were ridiculed as well. I am moderately optimistic that 1:1 planes will eventually follow, as RC electric cars became "good enough" and 1:1 electric cars are a reality now.
I had an electric RC plane in the mid 90s. It wasn't much, just a styrofoam body and pair of electric motors (no flight controls) but it was a cheap and functional RC plane.
Nice info, P and GP!
I built a RC buggy car with lipo batteries; it's amazing how quickly it goes, and how well we've suspension etc works. Sadly most of the time was spent on the build, too hard to get to the local track with family and such, but still a great experience. It's just so quiet compared to the nitro ones too.
Goes to show if you want to get somewhere, first you have to start. The other top trending thread on making a bit of progress every day comes to mind, it's amazing how far we can get over a long period of constantly making small improvements.