How many times have we announced the imminent arrival of a flying car ? Between the Alef Aeronautics project, LuftCar’s hydrogen-powered van or the JetsonOne (which actually really exists), this type of vehicle will always be in the pipeline of a company somewhere in the world. the world.
At a recent air show, XPeng, a specialist in electric vehicles, unveiled its new concept: a car that runs, but is also capable of taking flight. A radically different approach from its previous project, the X2.
A dual-use vehicle?
The Land Aircraft Carrier stands out from the others by its modular design: a main land vehicle, called “ mothership “, can add a detachable flying module. Beyond its undeniable innovative aspect for civil transport, the project takes on a completely different dimension.
In fact, the technical specifications suggest a barely veiled military dimension. The vehicle’s announced ability to reduce its radar signature is strangely reminiscent of the characteristics of stealth devices.
If the concept appeals on paper, nothing is decided yet. The transition between road and air mode, weight management, energy autonomy and even passenger safety during the separation and assembly phases are all complex issues that the company will have to resolve before any marketing.
China has previewed their first ever car that has an option to allow the drivers to “fly” called Land Aircraft Carrier, its expected to be released to the public by 2026 👀 pic.twitter.com/9ckjVp5Yp0
— ryan 🤿 (@scubaryan_) November 15, 2024
The excessive ambition of a China in a hurry to impress
XPeng, although recognized in the electric vehicle sector, is venturing onto somewhat slippery ground here. The company touts supposedly environmentally friendly electric propulsion, but obscures the colossal challenges of electric aviation : limited autonomy, weight of batteries, non-existent charging infrastructure. For the moment, this project seems more about marketing than a real revolution.
The 2026 horizon for commercialization could also be perplexing. Between aeronautical certifications, urban flight authorizations, user training and the establishment of dedicated infrastructure, this timetable appears particularly optimistic, even unrealistic. Previous flying vehicle projects, including those carried out by Western giants, have systematically seen their deadlines lengthen in the face of regulatory and technical constraints.
The convergence between automobiles and aviation however remains an attractive objectivebut the reality on the ground could quickly remind us that the path between prototype and massive commercialization is often longer and winding than advertised. Let’s still give XPeng a chance, the manufacturer could perhaps surprise us.
- XPeng has just presented a concept for a modular car capable of driving and flying.
- Its design suggests that military use would be possible.
- However, the feasibility of such a project by 2026 is absolutely not assured.
