The futuristic flying car, AirCar, which can convert itself from road vehicle to air vehicle in under three minutes, has now completed its initial flight testing.
The AirCar was invented and designed by professor Stefan Klein, with Klein having dreamed up the concept over three decades ago.
His company, Klein Vision, has researched and developed the patented technology that makes the AirCar, an affordable flying car, a reality.
Today’s AirCar, the fifth iteration of Klein’s flying car, has now completed two 1500-foot AGL flights at Piestany Airport in Slovakia.
According to Klein Vision, the model safely achieved two full airport patterns, including two take-offs and landings.
The fully functional prototype was developed and deployed within just 18 months, the company said.
The vehicle, intended for both personal leisure or commercial taxi usage, can be changed from its driving to flying mode with the click of a button, with its retractable wings and folding tail surfaces.
The two-seat model weighs 1,100 kilograms, and can carry an additional load of 200 kilograms per flight. It has a take-off distance of 300 metres and can reach speeds of up to 200km/h.
Powered by a BMW 1.6l engine, the car-come-plane has an effective power output of 140HP. The estimated travel range of the AirCar is 1,000 kilometres and flight consumption of 18 l/h.
Importantly, the company noted that the stability and controllability of the AirCar means it is accessible to any pilot.
According to Professor Klein, Klein Vision hopes to see a fully-certified and commercial model of the aircraft on the market within six months.
“The key flight parameters confirmed all theoretical concepts and calculations that the development of the AirCar was based on,” he said.
“Following the completion of all required flight tests in compliance with EASA regulations, we will deliver a model with a certified ADEPT, 300HP engine within the next six next months.
“The good news is, we already have a buyer.”
Anton Zajac, Klein Vision’s co-founder, investor and pilot, said, “With AirCar, you will arrive at your destination without the hassle of getting a ride to airport and passing through commercial security, you can drive your AirCar to the golf course, the office, the mall or your hotel and park it in a normal parking space.
“The wing and tail deployment/retraction mechanism is very impressive, converting the automobile into an airplane.
Dr Branko Sarh, Boeing senior technical fellow, said, “The cockpit providing space for the driver/pilot and a passenger is very roomy and nicely styled. The overall appearance of the flying car on road and in the air is superb.”
