China may begin using flying cars in summer 2027.
XPeng, a Chinese company, expects its two-seat flying vehicle to be ready in the second half of 2027. Initially, it will be used for recreational activities in rural areas and by emergency services.
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The model is expected to cost around $300,000 and has been in development for nearly 10 years. According to The Guardian, Chinese civil aviation authorities have approved its limited use.
The vehicle has no wheels. It uses six electric propellers similar to those on drones to take off and move through the air. It can be controlled with a joystick or fly autonomously to a programmed destination.
At the Web Summit in Lisbon, XPeng CEO Deli Zhao said users need just five minutes to learn how to operate it. He described the vehicle as designed for people passionate about travel, outdoor sports and flying.
A large six-wheeled van is used to transport the device. The flying vehicle is taken out of the back of the van and then unfolded.
Initial use will be permitted only in specially approved areas in China and in emergency service operations. The vehicle can currently travel around 30 kilometers in flight and reach an altitude of 1 kilometer above the ground.
The project is part of Beijing’s strategy to develop the so-called “low-altitude economy,” which includes drones, air cargo transport and flying passenger vehicles.
