Airbus to test ‘flying car’

Airbus claims a ride in its self-piloted electric aircraft, being developed by its Silicon Valley arm, will be as cheap as taking a regular taxi

VAHANA FLYING TAXI
Engines: Eight electric motors drive four variable-speed, variable-pitch propellers on each wing, allowing flight control in vertical and forward flight

Motor output: 45kW

Cabin: Single passenger only. Two-seater planned for 2020

Parachute

Security: Nose- mounted Lidar radar system and cameras allow vehicle to stay on designated flight path, avoiding obstacles such as birds, drones and other aircraft

Power: Two packs of lithium polymer batteries installed under fuselage can be replaced and
recharged in 15-60 minutes

Overall height: 2.75m
Fuselage length: 5.8m 
Retractable canopy
Wings tilt up for vertical takeoff and horizontal for forward flight

SPECIFICATIONS
Max. take-off weight      725kg
Maximum speed             175km/h 
Range                     100km 
Cost         $1.50-$2.50 per mile

Customer uses smartphone app to summon Vahana at nearby helipad
 
On-board computer clears flight path with air traffic control before transporting passenger autonomously to destination

Sources: Airbus A3, www.vahana.aero
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