Dubai takes a big leap into the future with a successful deployment of a flying car.
Key Details
- Flying cars are no longer a thing of dreams or science-fiction films—now they are a reality as Dubai showcases a new flying car.
- XPeng Aeroht had a successful test flight of its X2 flying car this week in Dubai.
- The X2 is a two-seater electric vertical take off and landing vehicle (eVTOL) and is designed for low-flying trips like sightseeing.
- The test flight marked a big step toward the future of flight in Dubai.
Why it’s important
Years ago when people talked about the future they mentioned flying cars and now that future is here.
Many companies have sought to build some variation of flying vehicles and XPeng Aeroht is taking on the competition.
The company XPeng Aeroht is an affiliate of Chinese electric-vehicle maker XPeng Inc., according to Bloomberg writer Jane Zhang.
The X2 is a two seater eVTOL that has an enclosed cockpit and is made of carbon fiber. The vehicle also comes equipped with both manual and autonomous flying modes.
“Xpeng X2’s public display in Dubai represents a significant milestone for Xpeng Aeroht and the international achievement of flying cars,” says XPeng President Brian Gu.
Others in the game
There are many other companies working towards the same goals as XPeng Aeroht and some are making good progress.
Some airlines have invested big money into companies in hopes to have eVTOLS or flying taxis in the future, including United Airlines.
United Airlines made a big investment in electric vehicles, by announcing a $15-million investment in Eve Air Mobility, a company that produces eVTOLs.
United also signed a conditional purchase agreement for 200 four-seat eVTOLs plus 200 options with first deliveries expected as early as 2026, according to the Eve news release.
Along with United, Delta Airlines has also announced a big investment. Delta made a $60 million investment in air-taxi company Joby Aviation Inc.
The airline is hoping that through this investment it will be able to bring flying-taxi rides to and from airports starting in Los Angeles and New York to combat traffic.Rome is also planning to have air-taxis in place for visitors of the 2025 Vatican Jubilee.
