Flying Cars & K-Pop? Electric Vehicles Take to the Skies
Alright, lads and lasses, buckle up - and I mean that literally. If you thought cars belong on the ground, prepare to be mildly shocked. Flying cars are becoming a thing, and they're sprouting wings from East to West.
First, a glimpse into the Orient. A two-seater X2 flying car took off, soared above buildings, and landed – all without a pilot. Xpeng AeroHT, the progeny of Chinese automaker Xpeng, Inc., showcased this marvel. They've also made it a sport to flutter across the Xiang River. I’m just hoping there's a waterproof feature; my old gas-guzzler once took a dip and let's just say it wasn’t pretty.
Xpeng AeroHT X2
While I've gushed about cars, bikes, boats, and planes - the electrification of it all is still a new territory. I mean, we've got electric toothbrushes, why not electric flying cars? But, as always, a touch of skepticism is in order - I'm all for innovation, but let's not have our cars ending up as kites, eh?
So, EHang, another aspiring airborne car-maker in China, is on the brink of a certificate for their EH216-S. A certificate for what? Not for best attendance, but to actually, legally, fly their vehicle. Kudos! Mr. Huazhi Hu, a top brass at EHang, says they’ve made “remarkable progress.” I'd say! Last time I checked, my sedan wasn't sprouting wings.
But here's the juicy bit - remember K-pop? The same industry that brought us thrilling beats is now investing in flying cars. Lee Soo Man, the bigwig behind SM Entertainment and a plethora of K-pop bands, tossed $23 million EHang’s way. I always knew pop stars lived on another planet; now they’re just trying to commute!
EHang EH216-S
Across the sea, the Japanese aren’t just singing along; they’re making strides too. A joint research venture aims to integrate flying cars with, well, everything - logistics, taxis, and tourism. They're planning on MaaS insurance, which presumably covers any messes in the air or land (and sea, but let's hope it doesn’t come to that).
And lest you think the good ol' US of A was snoozing, Alef Aeronautics unveiled its airborne vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show. They even gave it a test flight! Though, I’m just hoping they have a solid returns policy.
While I love the wind through my hair on a motorcycle, or the splash of saltwater while sailing, there's a magnetic charm about the potential of electrically powered flying cars. They promise cleaner airways and highways, for one. But will they be the transportation choice for the daily commuter or just another plaything for the rich and famous?
For now, my two cents? Grab a helmet. And maybe a parachute.
Yours truly,
Captain Electro
