Imagine cruising down the road in your car and then soaring over the Creek without encountering a Salik gate. This vision could materialize by 2030, thanks to the prototype flying car, the Xpeng Aeroht, showcased at the e& stand during the Gitex technology exhibition in Dubai, which commenced on Monday.
"This is a functioning prototype that will be available for purchase in 2030," stated Fengting Tang, a company spokesperson. "The car will resemble a conventional sports car, with its propellers discreetly concealed. When the driver opts to fly, the propellers will extend, the steering wheel will retract, and the vehicle will be maneuvered using a joystick."
This two-seater vehicle can ascend vertically to heights of up to 1,000 meters and operates on electric power. Another innovation by the company, the Modular Flying Car, claims to be the world's first drive and fly modular car. The air vehicle is designed to fit within the ground vehicle and can be removed when the passenger is ready to fly, enabling seamless transitions between driving and flying.
The single-seater air scooter, produced by the renowned French company Zapata, known for its flyboards, was another highlight at the e& stand. Available for preorder, the air scooter is slated for delivery by 2025. "Currently, it is intended solely for recreational use," noted a company spokesperson. "Individuals will be able to visit a flight center and pilot the air scooter along scenic routes. They will also have the option to purchase it for use in designated areas."
The spokesperson further added that the company is exploring the potential for mobility applications in the near future. "We aspire to launch it as a taxi service, but we are still in discussions with regulatory bodies regarding its feasibility," he explained. "If successful, we will consider redesigning the scooter to accommodate multiple passengers."
