The race to become the first company to launch a flying car is quickly pushing forward. Since traditional aircraft require a runway to gather enough speed to take flight, manufacturers are adopting a different kind of technology to overcome this limitation. In essence, the most practical solution for the difficulties with infrastructure is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) system. Hence, the Airbus Vahana Alpha Two will rely on the same configuration like many of its competitors.
Last week we eagerly featured the Bell Nexus and the Lilium. Both of which are flying taxis that use a hybrid and an all-electric power source respectively. Moreover, these two are spacious and can accommodate up to five passengers with one of them being the pilot. The latter just recently completed its maiden flight successfully. Meanwhile, the Vahana Alpha Two is a one-seater that can operate autonomously to pick up and ferry its occupant anywhere within range. Completing its test flights back in 2018, the latest version of the aircraft is showcasing how its cabin will look like.
As expected from an autonomous machine, the Airbus Vahana Alpha Two comes with a simple cabin. Climb up and all you’ll see inside is the seat and a single monitor in front. We just hope that there’s an emergency failsafe that allows passengers to take control in an emergency. The single-seat setup lets you experience the view as the pilot minus any flying experience. Just like the Lilium flying taxi, it is an all-electric model. The eight propellers are mounted in sets of two for each tilt wing. Airbus estimates a 62-mile range for each flight.
Check it out here
Images courtesy of Airbus
