Traffic can be extremely frustrating, especially for those experiencing the endless cycle of accelerating and braking, on their way to work. But commuters may finally be getting an answer: the hybrid electric flying car that’s been a longtime dream is finally beginning to take shape.
Massachusetts-based company Terrafugia, founded by students from Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) Aeronautics and Astronautics’ department in 2006, has developed a full-sized concept prototype flying vehicle called TF-X. The prototype is expected to be ready for testing by 2018, before retailing sale in 2024.
The concept car has wings that fold out with twin electric motors attached to each end that allow the TF-X to move from a vertical to horizontal position. It will be powered by a 300 horsepower engine, thrust will be provided by a ducted fan, and the vehicle with have a cruising speed of 200 mph with a 500-mile flight range.
As the vehicle moves to forward flight, the propellers will spin around until they are parallel to the car’s body. When the ducted fan is activated, the propellers will stop rotating and fold back along the nacelles.
Terrafugia’s aim is to provide “true door-to-door transportation,” with the vehicle having the capability to park in a home garage just like any standard car. It will be semi-autonomous, fit four people, and use computer controls so passengers can simply type in a destination before taking off.
“The TF-X operator will have final say over whether an approved landing zone is actually a safe place in which to land, and they may abort the landing attempt at any time,” Terrafugia said.
The company unveiled its latest model of TF-X at the Experimental Aircraft Association's annual fly-in in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and provided an animated design of what the vehicle is expected to look like.
Currently, a one-tenth scale model is being tested at the Wright Brothers wind tunnel at MIT. Trials will include everything from the drag, lift, and thrust forces of the model.
The TF-X is set to cost approximately $261,000 when it goes on sale. Owners will need a pilot and driver’s license, as well as completion of 20 hours of flying time, in order to operate the vehicle. To fulfill those requirements, interested pilots can head down a motorway to an airport and then take off on a conventional runway.
Source: Daily Mail
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