The Incredible Flying Cars of Tomorrow

 Road-legal flying vehicles will reach the market in the near future, the New York Times reports. The Terrafugia Transition is a two-seater car that turns into a plane. Thanks to its retractable wings, Terrafugia owners will be able to store the Terrafugia in their garages, drive them to local airports, and fly them to remote destinations.

The Terrafugia would not be possible without a couple of exemptions. A safety regulation waiver from the US Federal Aviation Administration allowed the Terrafugia to use light motorcycle tires and wheels, helping to keep the vehicle's weight down to 1,320 pounds (598 kg). Another waiver permitted sturdier windows. With a top flight speed of 138 miles per hour 222 kmh), the Terrafugia needs these advanced windows to withstand high-speed impacts with birds. The following YouTube video from the Terrafugia website demonstrates a pilot driving and flying the Terrafugia.

The New York Times article also described PAL-V, a 1,500-pound (680 kg) cross between a motorcycle and a helicopter. On the road, the PAL-V tilts into curves. In the air, a rotor and propeller let it fly. European officials already approved this two-seater vehicle for driving and it is awaiting approval for flying. A proof-of-concept flight looked promising; the YouTube video from the PAL-V website below shows the PAL-V in action.

Categories: October 2012, The Incredible Flying Cars of Tomorrow