XPENG AEROHT, the largest flying car company in Asia, announced that its revolutionary ‘Land Aircraft Carrier’ modular flying car will become available to pre-order in 2024 Q4, with delivery to individual users commencing in 2025 Q4.
The unique vehicle boasts a two-part design, seamlessly switching between terrestrial and aerial modes. The air module facilitates vertical takeoff for low-altitude flights, while the ground module ingeniously envelops the air module, allowing for ground transportation.
The ‘Land Aircraft Carrier’ aims to extend the user’s travel experience from the ground to the sky. Beyond personal use, the modular flying car holds potential for public services like emergency rescue, effectively catering to both public and private demands.
The company made the announcement at a press conference at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas. Alongside the ‘Land Aircraft Carrier,’ XPENG AEROHT also gave an international debut to its latest eVTOL flying car at the event, with attendees treated to a live demonstration of its transition from land to flight mode. This is the first time the company has given an eVTOL demonstration outside of China.
XPENG AEROHT is an affiliate of XPENG MOTORS and has more than 10 years of experience in low-altitude exploration.
Two flying vehicles with unique configurations
Having completed all key tests of the R&D validation phase, this modular flying car has now entered the preparation stage for mass production.
Though the final design is still in development, it already boasts a futuristic, cyber-mechanical aesthetic, characterized by sharp lines and sleek surfaces, reminiscent of a ‘lunar exploration vehicle’.
Ground module features:
- Accommodates four to five passengers
- Extended-range electric powertrain provides multiple recharges for the air module
- Three-axle, six-wheel configuration enables 6×6 all-wheel drive and rear-wheel steering
Air module features:
- Air module is a fully electric piloted aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and low-altitude flight
- Electric propulsion system meets single-point failure safety requirements
- Supports both manual and automatic driving modes, providing an accessible flying experience
- The 270-degree panoramic two-person cockpit offers a vast field of view
An international debut
Visitors to CES 2024 will also be treated to a live demonstration of the XPENG AEROHT eVTOL flying supercar. With its elegant fusion of design and technology, this vehicle offers the look, feel, and driving experience of a supercar, but can transition effortlessly from land to flight mode, allowing drivers to take to the air.
In land mode, the vehicle seamlessly folds its flying components for a stunning on-road appearance. Upon switching to flight mode, it opens its arms, facilitating vertical takeoff and landing.
This functionality allows for intuitive navigation through congested areas and obstacles when conditions permit, effectively addressing the demand for short-distance, low-altitude travel.
In 2022, XPENG AEROHT successfully accomplished a test flight of a prototype weighing approximately 2 tons. The eVTOL flying car is designed for future three-dimensional transportation, with the company proceeding to mass production once related policy, regulation and application scenarios become more mature.
“XPENG MOTORS is at the heart of a revolution in mobility,” said Dr. Brian Hongdi GU, vice chairman and president, XPENG MOTORS.
“The future of mobility goes beyond cars. Whether people want to travel by cars, air or other ways, we aspire to change what’s possible.”
“In 2013, we started AEROHT, dreaming of flying cars,” said Tan WANG, co-founder, XPENG AEROHT. “Fast forward to 2024, and that dream has become a reality. Today, we’re thrilled to unveil our two latest innovations which will take everyday folks from driving on roads to soaring through the sky. The future is here today, and the whole world is ready to fly!”
