An email response to an AFP query said the lead engineers were Cameron Robertson and Todd Reichert, who created a startup called Aerovelo which aims to produce the fastest human-powered vehicle. But we’re feasting our eyes on a real-life, noise-making “flying car” developed by the aviation startup Kitty Hawk. “From today we are ready to take the first pre-orders and we are honoured His Serene Highness the Prince of Monaco will unveil the AeroMobil today at the Top Marques Autoshow”.
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The approaches by companies vary and the realization of their competing visions seems far in the future, but they have one thing in common: a belief that one day regular people should be able to fly their own vehicles around town. Entirely electric, and using multiple rotors for lift, the prototype can wing across the water at high speeds before settling into the waves and letting the driver disembark for wine on the marina.
The New York Times writes that the Flyer’s eight propellers make it as loud as a speedboat and that the vehicle weighs about 220 pounds.
The prototype Kitty Hawk Flyer takes to the air. There’s a video on YouTube that shows the same in action. Instead of flying above the road like you may have envisioned, instead it’ll fly over water. It’s an ultralight aircraft, technically speaking, so you don’t need a pilot’s license to operate it. The official Flyer will be available by the end of the year.
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While the rumor mill caught wind of Kitty Hawk earlier past year, the company’s division called Zee.Aero had already caught limelight much before them. Page has reportedly invested more than $100 million into Kitty Hawk and its other division, Zee Aero. Thrun formerly led Google’s self-driving auto initiatives, so he and Page not only know each other, but also share ambitious goals when it comes to pushing the limits of the automobile. However, you are bound to get $2,000 discount on the final product if you book it for $100 now. But, the flying auto startup has a different goal in mind.
