'Land Aircraft Carrier' Concept Vehicle Unveiled
Detachable Manned Drone... Mass Production Planned
A new concept electric vehicle equipped with a flying drone in the trunk has been unveiled in China, attracting attention.
According to reports from electric vehicle specialized foreign media such as 'Electric' on the 24th (local time), Chinese electric vehicle company Xiaopeng revealed an electric hybrid car with the so-called 'land aircraft carrier' concept on the same day. This product is already planned for mass production.
The concept car was unveiled during the 'Tech Day 2023' event held in Guangzhou, China. The electric vehicle's trunk is equipped with a flying drone, which can be completely detached from the vehicle and move independently when needed.
New Concept Flying Car Introduced by Chinese Electric Vehicle Manufacturer Xiaopeng [Image Source=Xiaopeng]
Initially, the company intended to develop this vehicle as either an 'integrated' or 'detachable' type according to its product roadmap. After much deliberation, it was ultimately decided to proceed with the detachable type.
Previously, several startups have developed flying car concepts, vehicles capable of flying. However, most were either vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft or designs that combined drones and vehicles.
In contrast, Xiaopeng's vehicle is distinguished by the fact that the drone is mounted on the vehicle and can be detached. Additionally, the drone can continuously charge its battery while mounted in the vehicle's trunk, adding practicality.
The vehicle is a long-range hybrid car that can accommodate 4 to 5 passengers and features a trunk occupying the rear half of the vehicle.
The flying drone is developed as a two-seater vertical takeoff and landing manned aircraft that can be controlled manually or automatically.
Xiaopeng plans to pursue performance, safety, and reliability testing with the Civil Aviation Administration of China.
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