Skybound Mobility - In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, GAC Group has once again proven its commitment to pushing boundaries by unveiling its groundbreaking flying car, the GOVE, at the prestigious China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in late 2024. This innovative creation signifies not just a leap forward for the company but also a redefinition of urban mobility and aerial transportation. With its state-of-the-art features and a vision that blends functionality with futuristic design, the GOVE stands as a testament to GAC’s relentless pursuit of innovation.
GAC Group has once again proven its commitment to pushing boundaries by unveiling its groundbreaking flying car, the GOVE. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
Ready to FLY - Growing up watching cartoons like The Jetsons, where a compact personal flying rides were a norm, might have made the idea of personal flying vehicles seem less fantastical. Whether it's coincidental or not, today we're living in an era where that fantasy is turning into reality, particularly with the advancements in such technology embodied by the Jetson ONE. This innovative creation originates from an Italian-based startup founded by Peter Ternström and Tomasz Patan in 2017.
The Jetson ONE is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that weighs 86 kg and can fly for 20 minutes on a single battery charge, with a total duration of up to two hours. (Picture from: Elekrek.co)
The Jetson ONE is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that weighs 86 kg and can fly for 20 minutes on a single battery charge, lasting up to two hours. Controlled using a joystick and throttle system, it can achieve speeds of up to 63 mph.
Jetson's journey commenced with the official unveiling of the Jetson ONE in 2022, initially priced at $92,000.. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
It has captured the imaginations of many with its promise of private flight and unmatched freedom. Videos showcasing this futuristic aircraft have gone viral in recent years, sparking a surge in pre-orders and public interest.
The Jetson ONE 'personal flying rides' becomes first eVTOL certified for flight in Italy. (Picture from: Elekrek.co)
A significant milestone in the Jetson ONE's journey was reached when two of these innovative vehicles were spotted flying together for the first time. This not only showcased the technical capabilities of the aircraft but also hinted at its potential for a wide range of applications beyond recreational flying.
The Jetson ONE controlled using a joystick and throttle system, it can achieve speeds of up to 63 mph. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Originally marketed as a personal aircraft to make flying accessible to everyone, the Jetson ONE's single-seat design sets it apart in the eVTOL industry. The recent video demonstrating coordinated flight between two Jetson Ones suggests a future where these electric aircraft could be used for tasks ranging from rapid response missions to thrilling drone races.
Even with its price of $128,000 and an $8,000 down payment, the Jetson ONE remains in high demand, with production slots for 2024 and 2025 already sold out. (Picture from: VOI.id)
Despite its current price of $128,000, with an $8,000 down payment, the Jetson ONE continues to attract buyers, with production slots for 2024 and 2025 already sold out. This popularity reflects the growing confidence in eVTOL technology and its potential impact.
Operating the Jetson ONE in the US doesn't necessitate a pilot license, only training. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Jetson's journey began with the official unveiling of the Jetson ONE in 2022, initially priced at $92,000. Notable figures like Prince Albert II of Monaco unveiled it at prestigious events, solidifying Jetson's position as an industry leader. Milestones such as obtaining ultralight eVTOL certification in Italy further boosted Jetson's credibility.
Based in Arezzo, Tuscany, Jetson remains at the forefront of personal aviation. An interesting aspect of the Jetson ONE is that it can be flown without a pilot license in the US, making flying more accessible to enthusiasts.
Looking ahead, the sight of two Jetson ONE eVTOLs flying in formation signifies the exciting potential in personal aviation. Whether it's revolutionizing urban transport or creating new recreational opportunities, the Jetson ONE represents a future where the sky truly knows no limits. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JETSON ONE | AUTOEVOLUTION | ELEKTREK.CO ]
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Unique ONES - Remember those futuristic concept cars that ignited our imaginations and left us in awe during our childhood? One such marvel was the SAAB PhoeniX, a creation that seemed straight out of a sci-fi movie. Crafted by Jason Castriota, the PhoeniX was his inaugural masterpiece for SAAB, drawing inspiration from the iconic SAAB 92001 while incorporating elements from various SAAB models.
2011 SAAB PhoeniX Concept while on display at the Geneva Auto Show 2011.(Picture from: Automotif.Kompas)
Ready 2 FLY - In recent years, the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) rides market have experienced a rapid surge, witnessing the testing of various innovative concepts by numerous companies. While many designs lean towards drones or jet-like structures, there's a fascinating endeavor by Urban eVTOL (now LEO Flight Corporation) to transform everyday vehicles into personal flying cars, breaking away from the conventional drone-like appearance dominating the air taxi race.
The LEO Coupe is an eVTOL powered by an electric jet turbine that defies the typical drone or jet-like appearance associated with flying cars, instead resembling a luxury hypercar poised to soar through the urban skyline. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Founded in the spring of 2020 by Pete Bitar and Carlos Salaff, LEO Flight Corporation seeks to bridge the design gaps in VTOL flying cars. This collaborative venture between Bitar's Electric Jet Aircraft and Salaff's SALAFF Automotive aims to design and manufacture electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) flying cars for advanced air mobility (AAM). The company, currently seeking investors, stands out with its unique vision.
The LEO Coupe has such unique feature of hidden rotors within the wings ensures safety for those in proximity. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Pete Bitar, an accomplished VTOL and eVTOL inventor with over 14 patents and several aerospace awards, joined forces with Carlos Salaff, an automotive designer known for his work on futuristic concept and production cars including the Nagare, Furai, Mazda 3, MX-5 and SALAFF C2.
LEO Flight's LX-1 skeletal prototype on display at the Greentech Festival in New York City in 2022. (Picture from: AviationWeek)
Their collaboration birthed the LEO Coupe, an eVTOL powered by an electric jet turbine that defies the typical drone or jet-like appearance associated with flying cars, instead resembling a luxury hypercar poised to soar through the urban skyline.
The creators of the LEO Coupe envision a future where VertiStops on urban rooftops serve as not just transportation hubs but also as parking and charging stations for other electric vehicles, representing a strategic leap toward sustainable urban air mobility. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Unlike its counterparts, the LEO Coupe, slightly longer than an Aston Martin Valkyrie, boasts a size that fits into a standard 2-car garage. This makes it suitable for private ownership, air taxi services, and operation in confined spaces. The unique feature of hidden rotors within the wings ensures safety for those in proximity.
The LEO Coupe featured with spacious interior accommodates up to three passengers, with future plans to transition into fully autonomous vehicles once the technology matures. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Adding an extra layer of safety, the LEO Coupe incorporates a DARPA-funded propulsion system. Notably, the vehicle includes gull-wing doors, a distinctive feature that captures the attention of automotive enthusiasts. The spacious interior accommodates up to three passengers, with future plans to transition into fully autonomous vehicles once the technology matures. Until then, a driver is required, considering the remarkable speeds these cars can achieve – up to 250 mph (402 kph).
The LEO Coupe, slightly longer than an Aston Martin Valkyrie, boasts a size that fits into a standard 2-car garage. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
The flying car company envisions diverse applications for the LEO Coupe, ranging from fire rescue and medevac to coast guarding, tourism, and exploration. Renderings released by the company depict the vehicle seamlessly navigating various scenarios, highlighting its adaptability across different terrains without the need for extensive infrastructure development.
The flying car company envisions diverse applications for the LEO Coupe, ranging from fire rescue and medevac to coast guarding, tourism, and exploration. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Recently showcased at the 2024 CES, the LEO Coupe stood out among flying cars on displays, resembling more of a sports car than a conventional airplane. "We were determined to create a safe, compact vehicle that is simple to operate and feels intuitive to a culture accustomed to cars," emphasized Carlos Salaff, the designer behind the LEO Coupe.
As the company continues its pursuit of innovation, it is actively working on establishinga VertiStop pilot network for its eVTOLs. The plan involves developing VertiStops on existing urban rooftops, serving not only as transportation hubs for LEOs but also as parking and charging stations for other electric vehicles, marking a strategic move towards sustainable urban air mobility. The future seems to hold exciting possibilities as LEO Flight Corporation propels the concept of personal flying cars into new realms of accessibility and functionality. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LEO FLIGHT CORPORATION | EVTOLNEWS | AVIATIONWEEK | FUTURERIDE ]
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Futuristic RIDES - In the realm of extraterrestrial fascination, flying saucers often spark thoughts of encounters with aliens and UFO mysteries. However, not all saucers are bound for outer space; some find their origins right here on Earth, crafted by human ingenuity. This unlikely association between terrestrial design and celestial speculation is evident in various automotive creations, challenging the conventional narrative of unidentified flying objects.
The
Renault Reinastella flying saucer concept, a result of the French
automaker's partnership with Euro Disney in 1992, emerged as a
distinctive creation. (Picture from: lAutomobileAncienne)
In the automotive world, renowned designers like Alex Tremulis ventured into uncharted territory, conceptualizing flying saucer designs. This trend extended beyond the drafting board, with manufacturers materializing these imaginative ideas into real, tangible forms. Examples include the 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 Disco Volante, the futuristic 1958 Ford X-2000, the gyroscopic wonder of 1967 Gyro-X, and the contemporary 2016 Alfa Romeo Disco Volante Spyder, each defying expectations.
The Reinastella name of 1992 Renault's flying saucer originated to the classic luxury car model, Renault Reinastella, dating back to early of 1930s. (Picture from: Secret-Classic)
Yet, amidst these earthly endeavors, there exists an intriguing anomaly—a flying saucer not confined on wheels. Renault, the famed French automotive manufacturer, ventured into uncharted skies in the early 1990s. Known for its conceptual prowess, Renault's partnership with Euro Disney in 1992 led to the creation of a flying saucer projecting into the distant future, the Renault Reinastella, named after a luxurious Renault classic model from early of the 1930s.
The
Renault Reinastella, enveloped in innovative dermotylene and infused
with avant-garde biomechanics, surpassed the notion of a mere vehicle. (Picture from: Proektor)
Crafted with avant-garde biomechanics and coated in the innovative synthetic material dermotylene, the Reinastella was envisioned as more than a mere vehicle. Propelled by a bio-organic engine fueled by 'plasmelf' fluid, it transcended conventional transportation, almost resembling a living organism. Operating 15 cm above the ground at 50 kph or soaring at 150 m and 300 kph, the Reinastella adapted its architecture for optimal aerodynamics during flight.
The Renault Reinastella, an airborne marvel, epitomized futuristic luxury travel for five passengers controlled by voice commands.. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)
Silently transporting five passengers through voice commands, this airborne marvel represented the epitome of luxury in futuristic travel. Access to its passenger compartment is from below through an open hatch, not from above, as the bubble remains closed.
Access to the Reinastella's passenger compartment is from below through an open hatch, not from above, as the bubble remains closed. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)
Two examples were constructed and showcased on telescopic masts during Renault's partnership with Disneyland Paris. After the event, these futuristic saucers joined the Renault Classic Collection, destined to await their sale - scheduled a whopping 305 years into the future.😮
While
the Renault Reinastella may not soar through the skies, it invites us
to envision a future where innovation defies the limits of logic and
propels us into uncharted realms. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)
Today, the Reinastella may be considered an 'Identified Flying Object' or IFO, as it remains grounded. Despite its earthly tethering, it serves as a captivating decorative testament to Renault's imaginative prowess. A glimpse into a future more than a century away, this 'IFO' prompts us to keep dreaming, pushing boundaries, and contemplating the unimaginable.
Ready 2 FLY - XPeng Motors, headquartered in Guangzhou, China, also has additional offices in California, United States, has positioned itself as a significant player in the electric car industry, earning a listing on the New York Stock Exchange. The company's notable growth in China is underscored by its robust sales performance. Notably, XPeng Motors has ventured into groundbreaking territory with the development and production of a flying car through its subsidiary, XPeng AeroHT.
XPeng AeroHT displayed a concept electric vertical take-off and landing flying car at the 2024 CES consumer tech show in Las Vegas. (Picture from: NikkeiAsia)
Established in 2014, XPeng Motors fulfilled its promise to unveil the XPeng AeroHT eVTOL prototype at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, United States. The flying car managed to steal the spotlight at the event, drawing attention from CES attendees.
XPeng
AeroHT has successfully conducted a test flight of a two-ton eVTOL Flying Car prototype. (Picture from: Mobilitas.id)
Since 2021, XPeng AeroHT has actively engaged in developing the XPeng X2 flying car prototype. The culmination of their efforts came to fruition in 2022 when the Chinese company successfully conducted a test flight of a two-ton eVTOL Flying Car prototype. This innovative electric flying vehicle is equipped with contemporary safety features and showcases a state-of-the-art foldable rotor mechanism. The flying car's design is futuristic, boasting aerodynamic contours and a partially enclosed rear wheel that captivates the imagination of transportation enthusiasts.
The Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL employs a modular Land Aircraft Carrier with a dual-function design, featuring a module for vertical take-off as a pusher and lever and a land module serving as a car-like power source. (Picture from: Mobilitas.id)
XPeng Motors, in a statement released through XPeng AeroHT and reported by Nikkei Asia, announced plans to commence accepting orders for the flying car in the final quarter of 2024, with deliveries slated to begin in 2025. The XPeng AeroHT eVTOL is built on a modular Land Aircraft Carrier design, featuring two integral parts. The first part serves as a driver and lever for vertical take-off, akin to a personnel transport aircraft for low-altitude flights. The second part functions as a power source, resembling a conventional car for road use, ensuring safety and comfort.
At the 2024 CES event, the manufacturer of electric flying cars demonstrated a smooth transition between land and air modes, showcasing a vertical take-off. (Picture from: Otomotif.Sindonews)
During the CES event, the electric flying car manufacturer showcased the seamless transition between land and air modes, with a demonstration of vertical take-off (the initial endeavor carried out beyond China). In ground mode, the eVTOL flying car exhibits a streamlined appearance as its flying components fold inward. Following adjustments, the vehicle effortlessly reopens its 'wings' for vertical take-off.
XPeng Motors emphasized the versatile applications of these modular flying cars beyond personal use, citing their potential for public services such as emergency rescue operations, effectively meeting various governmental or private needs.
The initial market for these flying cars will be in China, with a price tag exceeding CHN ¥1 million (approximately $140,000 or Rp. 2.1 billions). Prospective buyers are required to undergo testing in a designated area before making a purchase. As XPeng Motors sets the stage for a new era of personal transportation, the XPeng AeroHT eVTOL promises to revolutionize the way we perceive and engage with mobility. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | XPENG AEROHT | NIKKEI ASIA | CNET ]
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