news

“Flying car” publicly tested in Japan. Is this finally the real deal?

A “flying car" built by Japanese developer SkyDrive has been publicly demonstrated for the first time.


The SD-03 vehicle is powered by eight independent electric motors and has been in development since 2014.

While no one can dispute its sound aeronautical capabilities, the vehicle’s status as a “car” remains slightly more controversial – this prototype doesn’t even have wheels, meaning it is less manoeuvrable on the ground than most planes.

In fact, the SD-03 is more like a large drone that can carry one person, than a flying car.

Until now, other so-called experimental "flying cars" – such as those tested in the US – have been light aircraft that can fold their wings and be driven a short distance on public roads at modest speeds.

Nevertheless, the Japanese manufacturer is adamant the SD-03 a “flying car”.

A spokesperson for SkyDrive told Drive "before developing a prototype model with wheels, [we] would like to ensure that the incredibly difficult flight function is achieved as a first step".

"[We] aim at driving function from late 2020."

SkyDrive is sponsored by Toyota, and the most recent test took place at the brand's 10,000 square metre test field.

Taking off in the early evening, the vehicle circled the site for about four minutes.

 

Drive

A pilot was directly in control of the flight's altitude, pitch, and steering, however stability was managed by an onboard computer system.

The SkyDrive spokesman confirmed to Drive the company is "targeting the launch of a commercial manned air mobility service in 2023".

However, don't expect to see the product in Australia anytime soon.

"We believe that we can add more value in places like Japan and Asia, where the land is small and it is difficult to land and take off from," the spokesperson added.

The notion of flying cars has long been heralded as the pinnacle of technological advancement, however few practical examples have ever been produced.

In 1917 aviator Glenn Curtiss unveiled the first serious attempt at such a vehicle. His aluminium Autoplane was powered by a four-bladed propeller at the rear.

The Aerocar, which was designed and built by inventor Molt Taylor, was successfully flown in 1949 (pictured below).

 

Drive

The vehicle never went into production however, and just six examples were built.

Various other flying cars appeared through the 20th century, however none were commercially successful.

In 2017 Chinese manufacturer Geely bought flying car developer Terrafugia, and vowed to make its product a reality by 2021.

Later that year Mercedes-Benz invested in flying taxi and drone company Volocopter.

Last year Porsche and Boeing joined forces for an 'urban air mobility' project.

Uber is also developing its own high-flying shuttle service, known as uberAIR.

 

Watch the flight below.

Drive
William Davis

William Davis has written for Drive since July 2020, covering news and current affairs in the automotive industry. He has maintained a primary focus on industry trends, autonomous technology, electric vehicle regulations, and local environmental policy. As the newest addition to the Drive team, William was brought onboard for his attention to detail, writing skills, and strong work ethic. Despite writing for a diverse range of outlets – including the Australian Financial Review, Robb Report, and Property Observer – since completing his media degree at Macquarie University, William has always had a passion for cars.

Read more about William DavisLinkIcon
Chat with us!







Chat with Agent