Flying cars have been the subject of fascination for decades, often depicted as the ultimate futuristic transportation solution. But with recent advancements, it seems we are finally on the brink of making this dream a reality. From electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles to legislative proposals aiming to regulate their use, the flying car industry is rapidly developing, particularly in the United States and China.
At the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition on November 12, 2024, GAC Group showcased its innovative flying car, the GOVE. This self-developed vehicle completed its first demonstration flight, where the flight cabin lifted off directly from the vehicle’s chassis. Prior to this, GOVE had already impressed audiences with its maiden flight over the Guangzhou Central Business District earlier this year. With civil aviation certifications now secured, GAC aims to have flying car operations up and running in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area by 2027.
The GOVE, classified as a pure electric eVTOL, stands out with its unique decoupling design. This feature allows the chassis and flight cabin to operate independently or together, enabling seamless transitions between ground driving, air flight, and hybrid scenarios. Following its air travel, the chassis can even autonomously navigate to charging stations, recharging the flight cabin when it's ready to land. The engineless electric vehicle is powered by twelve propellers positioned for optimal lift, making it not only innovative but also energy-efficient.
Meanwhile, the enthusiasm isn’t limited to China. Ehang, another key player, recently achieved what they claim to be the world’s first flight test of a solid-state battery-operated eVTOL. This flight was achieved with their EH216-S model, completing 48 minutes of uninterrupted flight. The new solid-state technology promises increased endurance, making it suitable for various flight scenarios. Ehang’s partnership with Shenzhen-based startup, Lixia Energy Technology, has paved the way not only for their current achievements but also future developments, with plans to have mass production of their flying car by the end of 2025.
Closer to home, legislation is brewing amid increasing developments. Pennsylvania Senator Marty Flynn has proposed legislation to allow ‘roadable aircrafts’ on the state's roads. The ambitious bill positions Pennsylvania as one of the first states to embrace these innovative vehicles, leading to potential growth and investment opportunities. The ASKA, which operates similarly to helicopters with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, exemplifies this burgeoning field. According to co-founder Guy Kaplinsky, combining aviation and automotive transport could revolutionize personal transportation.
Looking to the future, ASKA's A5 focuses on vertical takeoff and landing, effortlessly converting from aerial to terrestrial travel by folding away its wings. The Switchblade, created by Samson Sky, showcases the duality of flying and driving, boasting impressive stats of reaching speeds of 160 mph in the air and moving from zero to sixty miles per hour on the freeway. Such designs merge elements of both vehicles, providing versatility for users, and making private air travel more accessible.
Interestingly, the conversation around flying cars isn't solely centered on individual ownership. Companies like Uber have ambitious plans to design air taxis aimed at blending urban transport with air travel. The opportunities for ridesharing models adapted to this new eco-system hint at how our cities could evolve, with airborne carpools possibly becoming the norm. Kaplinsky believes this service model aligns with consumer needs, positioning their flying vehicles as suitable for individuals seeking convenient urban mobility.
While progress is evident, challenges remain. Legislative hurdles present significant obstacles for potential users. For example, anyone wishing to operate one of these vehicles would require both driver's and pilot’s licenses, posing logistical complications. Annual inspections add another layer of complexity, particularly when combining the regulatory requirements of both modes of vehicle operation.
The excitement continues to build as manufacturers and government regulators work to solidify the future of flying cars. Market estimates suggest China's low-altitude economy could expand to nearly $484 billion by 2035, making it evident why many automotive manufacturers are exploring opportunities within this space. Traditional car manufacturers like Xpeng, BYD, and Geely have also begun to stake their claim within the nascent flying vehicle market, aiming to capture consumers' imaginations and wallets.
With GAC set to expand its GOVE operation, Ehang forging trails with battery technology, and Pennsylvania’s legislative proposals indicating the start of regulatory frameworks, the future is beginning to look more like the sci-fi films of our youth. While the realization of personal flying cars may still be years away, developments are making leaps and bounds.
Maybe one day, before your morning commute even starts, you’ll simply step outside, hop onboard your flying car, and glide your way above traffic straight to work. A world where everyone has their flying vehicle may feel out of reach, but every flight achieved, every law passed, moves us nearer to the skies.
Is it too far-fetched to say be ready? Because the future is not as far away as we may think. With innovation and advancements like these driving forward, who knows - our skies might soon be filled with more than just birds and planes, but our very own flying cars.
