Ever been stuck in traffic on the commute and thought there must be a faster way to get to work? What about flying instead? Of course, in the conventional sense, that’s not possible. So, what about the option of flying cars?
This concept often seems like some pie in the sky, James Bond-style special effect. However, they do exist, and a few concept designs have even taken to the skies.
But could this idea really take off in 2022? Plus, why hasn’t it already? Read on as we delve a little deeper into the possibilities of flying cars and check out some of the futuristic concept models.
What is a flying car?
While a flying car is known as a car that flies, it’s technically most often a plane that has been modified for use on the road. The design and ingenuity that goes into making these models are impressive.
A lot is going on to make it great to drive and fly. But, that’s not forgetting each design needs to comply with road and aviation regulations…
The challenges in the flying car market
There’s no doubt a flying car is a cool concept, but this sector faces a host of challenges to get them off the ground – quite literally.
As we mentioned, there are heaps of regulations for the production of motor vehicles and planes. Then throw in the fact you also need to be able to pilot a plane and hold a driver’s licence. Plus, deal with monumental changes to infrastructure and somehow marry it all together. A near-impossible task, you’ll probably agree.
Another avenue that could present issues is the eco-credentials of flying cars. The UK’s ban on petrol and diesel vehicles comes into effect in 2030. Other countries are following suit with similar plans. So, where does a flying car fit in? Currently, combustion engines power most concept models. Although, if a flying car is technically a plane that you can drive, does it fall into a different category?
There are many questions and hurdles to overcome before we hail our first flying taxi. However, even after all this, that hasn’t stopped designers and engineers from joining forces to create some incredible concept models. There’s even a design that’s gained an Official Certificate of Airworthiness.
Let’s check out some of the current designs:
AirCar
AirCar is the creation of Professor Stefan Klein. It is powered by a BMW 1.6 litre 160hp engine and can cruise the skies at around 118mph. This model recently received a Certificate of Airworthiness from Slovak Transport Authority and has completed 70 hours of flight tests to get its wings. There’s also the plan to introduce a more powerful engine, which will achieve an increased cruising speed.
AeroMobil
This Slovakian designed model is due to arrive in 2023. It has a host of impressive features, including powerful driving and flying capabilities. You can also move between drive and flight modes in less than three minutes!
Renault AIR4
As a nod to the popularity of the Renault 4, the car manufacturer joined forces with French company TheArsenale to create a flying version of the iconic model. Its body closely resembles the original but is made out of carbon fibre. However, while it looks like a car that can fly, it doesn’t actually have any wheels. So you can’t drive it!
PAL-V Liberty
Rather than use the conventional plane design to create a flying car, the PAL-V Liberty has a rotor blade much like a helicopter. It boasts fantastic Dutch engineering alongside sleek Italian design. Plus, it incorporates state-of-the-art technology and safety specs. This model is available to buy. However, there are limited numbers, and you’ll probably need your own helipad to land it.
ITEC Maverick
This compact yet powerful flying car is probably one of the easiest ways to enjoy the flying car experience. It runs on a 2.5 litre Subaru engine and packs a punch at 187bhp. While speeds on the road are pretty impressive, in the air, you’ll see a max of 40mph. Its lightweight design features folding wings and a parachute canopy. But, you’d better wrap up warm, as this model doesn’t have any doors!
Italdesign AirBus Pop.Up
Back in 2017, AirBus revealed its flying car offering to the world – the Pop.Up. It has space for two people and is propelled by eight blades. The car and plane mode enable fully autonomous capabilities, and it’s been hailed as an alternative to taxis. The concept of this design is to make people’s lives easier. So, plans also include individuals booking journeys via their smartphones.
Terrafugia Transition
The Terrafugia Transition is described as bringing the dream of flying cars to life. However, this is ultimately a plane first and a car second. Push a button and transitioning from flight to drive mode happens in under one minute. Plus, want to travel with a friend, there’s space for them too.
Terrafugia TF-X
Terrafugia has certainly been busy designing the future of flying cars – the TF-X. This concept model is ambitious. It features plug-in hybrid technology and autonomous driving modes. Plus, it’s big selling point, vertical take-off and landing. So, there’s no need for your own airstrip. While the model looks somewhat space-age, it could present the possibility of flying cars designed for a family with room for four people. It can also fit into a single car garage.
Could flying cars become a reality in the future?
There’s always a possibility that flying cars might gain more traction in the future. Car manufacturers such as Renault and BMW are already flexing their air-worthy models. However, the logistics, regulations and qualifications to pilot such designs will inevitability create challenges. So, the likelihood of seeing them in the skies is a long way off.
