Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Xpeng has announced its ambitious plan to deliver its first flying car by 2026. The announcement was made by Brian Gu, co-president of Xpeng, in an exclusive interview with CNBC. This innovative step marks a significant leap in the future of personal transportation.
Last year, Xpeng AeroHT, an affiliate of Xpeng, introduced the Land Aircraft Carrier, a futuristic vehicle that encapsulates a flying two-seater passenger electric drone within a large truck. This modular flying car can detach from the truck, allowing users to embark on low-altitude flights. The unique design signifies Xpeng’s commitment to pioneering new frontiers in electric mobility.
Brian Gu revealed that the flying car is currently undergoing a rigorous certification process with the Chinese aviation regulator. The vehicle is expected to be available for pre-order later this year, with deliveries slated for 2026. This timeline is a slight delay from the initially projected fourth-quarter 2025 delivery target.
“We are confident in our timeline because we are designing this for use not in urban centres but in scenic outskirts where we will collaborate with municipalities to create flying parks and zones,” said Gu. These designated areas will allow people to enjoy flying without navigating the complexities of urban regulatory approvals.
No Special License Required
For its initial rollout, passengers will not need a special license to operate the flying car. “Our initial use case focuses on leisure and sports activities in non-urban areas. As operations move closer to urban centres, specialized licenses will be necessary, adding complexity to the approval process,” Gu explained.
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Xpeng has been actively exploring diverse avenues within electric mobility. CEO He Xiaopeng has previously emphasized the company’s long-term vision, which includes not just flying cars but also advancements in robotics. The company’s efforts are aimed at revolutionizing transportation and making aerial mobility a reality for the masses.
“Xpeng Motors is at the heart of a revolution in mobility,” said Dr. Brian Hongdi Gu, Vice Chairman and President, of 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.”
Xpeng AeroHT showcased its latest innovations at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas. The company demonstrated the Land Aircraft Carrier’s seamless transition between land and flight modes, marking the first time this technology was displayed outside China. This event solidified Xpeng AeroHT’s position as a leader in the flying car industry.
“In 2013, we started AeroHT, dreaming of flying cars,” added Tan Wang, Co-founder, of 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!”
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Features and Specifications
The Land Aircraft Carrier features a ground module that can accommodate 4-5 passengers and boasts an extended-range electric powertrain capable of multiple recharges for the air module. The vehicle’s three-axle, six-wheel configuration enables 6×6 all-wheel drive and rear-wheel steering, ensuring robust ground mobility.
The air module is a fully electric, piloted aircraft designed for vertical takeoff and low-altitude flight. It features an electric propulsion system that meets single-point failure safety requirements and supports both manual and automatic driving modes. The 270° panoramic two-person cockpit offers a vast field of view, enhancing the flying experience.
eVTOL Flying Supercar
In addition to the Land Aircraft Carrier, Xpeng AeroHT introduced its eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) flying car, which combines the aesthetics and driving experience of a supercar with the capability to transition to flight mode. This vehicle can fold its flying components when on the road, offering a sleek on-road appearance, and deploy them for vertical takeoff when needed.
During CES 2024, attendees witnessed a live demonstration of this eVTOL vehicle, which showcased its ability to navigate congested areas and obstacles, addressing the demand for short-distance, low-altitude travel.
Xpeng AeroHT has incorporated advanced safety features into its flying vehicles. The modular flying car’s aircraft module includes a six-axis, six-rotor configuration with two innovative reversible ducts. In the event of rotor failure, the flight control system can make rapid adjustments to ensure safe operation. Additionally, a multi-parachute rescue system, tested successfully at ultra-low altitudes, enhances safety by deploying parachutes at just 50 meters, far lower than the industry standard.
