XPENG AEROHT, a subsidiary of XPENG Motors, introduced its innovative "Land Aircraft Carrier" modular flying car at XPENG Tech Day 2023. This vehicle features a distinctive two-part design, seamlessly transitioning between terrestrial and aerial modes.
The air module enables vertical takeoff for low-altitude flight, while the ground module encapsulates the air module, allowing for conventional ground transportation. Additionally, XPENG AEROHT unveiled a new eVTOL flying car design.
Modular Flying Car
The ground module of this modular flying car can accommodate 4-5 passengers and incorporates an extended-range hybrid power system, capable of providing multiple recharges for the air module.
It is equipped with a three-axle, six-wheel configuration, enabling 6x6 all-wheel drive and rear-wheel steering, enhancing its carrying capacity and off-road capabilities. While the final design is still under development, it showcases a futuristic, cyber-mechanical aesthetic characterized by sharp lines and sleek surfaces, reminiscent of a "lunar exploration vehicle", according to the company.
The air module constitutes a fully electric, manned aircraft capable of executing vertical takeoffs and conducting flights at low altitudes. It relies on a distributed electric propulsion system to adhere to rigorous safety standards in the event of isolated technical failures.
This aircraft facilitates both manual and automatic operational modes, ensuring ease of access during flight. The 270° panoramic cockpit, designed for two occupants, offers an extensive and unobstructed field of view.
XPENG AEROHT's modular flying car's automated system streamlines the process of separating and merging the air and ground modules, drawing parallels to the transformative capabilities observed in fictional Transformers.
New eVTOL Flying Car
During XPENG Tech Day 2023, a new eVTOL flying car design was unveiled, building on previous innovations from the company's past two years. Components like manipulator arms, rotor systems, and other flight features can be folded and stored within the vehicle.
The design incorporates a supercar style, featuring an intelligent cockpit that transitions between land and flight modes, integrating parts like the steering wheel and dashboard.
Taking into account considerations related to policy, regulation, and practical application, XPENG AEROHT will prioritize the production and delivery of the modular flying car over the eVTOL flying car, aligning with prevailing industry trends.
XPENG AEROHT not only introduced its latest flying car models but also spotlighted significant strides in safety technology. The air module of the advanced modular flying car boasts a configuration with six axes and six rotors, integrating two reversible ducts.
In the event of a rotor failure, the flight control system can swiftly make algorithmic adjustments at the millisecond level, ensuring the continued safe operation of the aircraft.
"Flying cars are set to revolutionize transportation, aligning with growing demands for efficient and convenient mobility. These transformations not only meet public demand but are actively supported and encouraged by government policies," the company said in a statement.
"From January to June this year, numerous policies related to the low-altitude economy were released by central and local authorities in China, totaling over 120, reflecting the nation's commitment to fostering aviation innovation."
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