Pioneering European flying car technology has been acquired by a leading Chinese firm, marking a major shift in the field of personal aerial mobility.
The ground-breaking technology introduced through AirCar, originally created and successfully tested within European borders, has now found a new home under the ownership of Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company, based in Cangzhou, China.
The acquisition grants exclusive rights to manufacture and operate AirCar aircraft in a designated area, the details of which remain undisclosed.
Designed by KleinVision, the AirCar made headlines in 2021 for its remarkable feat of seamlessly transitioning from a serviceable vehicle to a functional aircraft in just over two minutes. Powered by a BMW engine and conventional fuel, the AirCar completed a 35-minute flight between two Slovakian airports using conventional runways for takeoff and landing.
Anton Zajac, co-founder of KleinVision, confirmed the progress, saying that Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company has already built its infrastructure, including an airport and flight school, following a previous acquisition from a Slovak aircraft manufacturer.
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China’s proactive stance in embracing futuristic transportation solutions is underscored by recent developments, including successful test flights of passenger-carrying drones and the accreditation of electric flying taxis. This trajectory is in line with the country’s massive drive for innovative mobility solutions, similar to its leadership in the electric vehicle sector.
However, the integration of flying cars into mainstream transportation systems faces many challenges, from regulatory frameworks to public acceptance. Aviation consultant Steve Wright clarified the complexity and highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in regulatory approaches to accommodate these transformative technologies.
As the sale of the AirCar technology signals a potential paradigm shift in the air mobility sector, there is speculation about China’s strategic position in the global flying car market. While prototypes like the AirCar will impress with their novelty, the envisioned reality may require logistical considerations similar to conventional air travel.
