Flying cars a reality by 2018
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The flying car
The Terrafugia “TF–X”, an automated four-seater flying car concept, for every day commuters, could begin testing as early as 2018, according to a recent update from the US. It was also revealed that, if this testing timeframe was realised, these flying cars would likely start selling by 2025.
This latest update also follows news from end-2015 that a scaled down prototype, which was 2 feet long, and weighs just 25 kg, has already been approved by the US-based Federal Aviation Administration, for testing in that country’s airspace.
First unveiled in 2013, the “TF-X” was conceptualised by Terrafugia, a Boston, USA, company that already offers the “Transition” flying car, which is priced at US$ 279,000, and requires its operator to have a pilot’s licence, as well as access to a 500m runway for take-off and landing. In contrast, the Terrafugia promises that that the “TF-X” will not require a pilot’s licence, but instead only require taking a five-hour course to certify, since the actual flight function will be automated and all the operator will need to do is select from available destinations.
It will also not require a runway since it uses twin electric motors, powered by a 300hp engine, that allow for vertical takeoff and landing, which later assume a horizontal position for a cruising speed of up to 320km/h for around 800km. Further, it is also noteworthy that the “TF-X” will feature a number of safety features, including a full parachute back-up system, along with the ability to automatically land at the closest airport should the operator become non-responsive, according to previous Terrafugia announcements. (JH)