So… flying cars, that’s apparently a thing now, as brilliant scientists from Slovakia has created a real life concept of what a flying car should look like. From what is only real in Sci-Fi movies is now real in real life! Though don’t get too hyped, this is just a concept vehicle.
The car, dubbed “AirCar” has been created by KleinVision, a startup founded by Professor Stefan Klein. He said that the car can fly for up to 1000km at a height of 8200km at max altitude. According to the BBC, the car has flown for 40h on its maiden flight. Stefan Klein has invested GBP 1.7 million for the concept.
Anton Zajac, adviser and investor for Klein Vision said that if they reach even a small percentage on taxi or global airline sales (whatever that means), then this project could be successful. “There are over 40,000 orders of aircraft in the United States alone” he said.
It takes about 2 minutes and 15 seconds to spread the wings and transform the car into a plane.
In Klein Vision’s website, there appears to be four versions of the car: there’s one with four seats, one two-seater version, a twin engine version and even an amphibious version.
This video shows its transformation process. Dr. Stephen Wright, a senior researcher in aviation and aircraft from the University of the West of England, described the vehicle as a “love child between a Bugatti Veyron and a Cesna 172”. “I have to admit that this looks really cool – but I’ve got a hundred questions about certification,” he added. He also noted that it is tricky to make a plane that can fly for hours, with only one person aboard without having to cause an international incident.
“Anyone can make an aeroplane but the trick is making one that flies and flies and flies for the thick end of a million hours, with a person on board, without having an incident.” Dr. Stephen Wright said, “I can’t wait to see the piece of paper that says this is safe to fly and safe to sell.” he added.
To learn more about the vehicle, please visit their website
Source: BBC