CES 2024 saw a flying supercar, and it is not within the realm of science fiction either, as XPENG AEROHT, the largest flying car company in Asia, has said that its ‘Land Aircraft Carrier’ modular flying car will become available to pre-order in 2024 Q4, with delivery to individual users commencing in 2025 Q4. This vehicle has a two-part design that switches between terrestrial and aerial modes, with an air module that facilitates vertical take-off for low-altitude flights, while the ground module envelops the air module, allowing for ground transportation.
The other car is the eVTOL flying supercar, which caught our attention. This is a radical supercar, but it also moves to flight mode easily. Upon switching to flight mode, it can basically vertical take-off and land vertically. When not in use, the propeller arms are tucked in, and you can drive it like any supercar, albeit with an attention-grabbing design. It is even more striking with the carbon fiber blades being added on eight of them, and the complex shape sits two since there must be space for those blades.
It is therefore quite complex how the various systems fold inside when not in use, especially with the rotor systems and whatnot. The design too is angular, but not the usual low-slung shape, which is typical of supercars due to the addition of carrying the blades. That said, it is quite something that you can simply fly away to steer clear of traffic rules, permitting, of course. While the Ladn Aircraft Carrier could cost around $200,000, this flying supercar is a concept for now.
However, the flying supercar shows a future where one can drive a car and fly with the same controls without the complex learning curve. Also, taking off vertically means that it is not impractical in terms of needing lots of space or a runway. This car is not science fiction with rotors and propeller functioning. It is an EV supercar on one hand, but a flying car on the other.
While it is a tantalizing prospect for now, the future could see the birth of the flying supercar. Of course, a myriad of rules and regulations need to be checked, and the feasibility of this technology in terms of pricing is also important, but a flying supercar would have enough takers for sure!
