The power of human intelligence is an incredible thing. When we put our mind to it, there is nothing we cannot achieve.
We’ve been joking about flying cars for decades. Anytime you’re stuck in horrible traffic, that’s the immediate reaction, isn’t it? “If only we had a flying car!”
Well, you might have one in the near future!
Because while we were sitting in our cars, cribbing about the traffic, some genius in a room somewhere was working on the idea for the prototype of the exact same thing.
Development of flying cars
The idea of flying cars has been around for decades, of course. Science fiction has used this premise multiple times. From the DeLorean in Back to the Future to the Ford Anglia in Harry Potter — we have watched, and we have dreamed, and we have waited for our moment in the sky.
It is only recently that technology has advanced enough to make this a realistic possibility. There are several promising startups working in this space in India.
One of the main drawbacks in developing a flying car is that, unlike an airplane, you don’t have a runway available. So how do you ensure speed and precision?
The development of Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) technology is a direct solution to this problem. This allows for the aircraft to take off and land vertically, making them ideal for urban areas. Most of the prototypes in this space are currently based on this VTOL technology.
When can we expect flying cars in India?
Good news!
You can expect to zoom around in a flying car as early as 2023!
Bangalore-based SkyDrive is working on developing a flying car as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cars. The company has already completed several successful test flights, and they are planning to launch their first flying car by 2023.
Vinata Aeromobility, based in Hyderabad, is developing a hybrid electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft that can be used for urban air mobility. They are aiming to launch commercial operations by 2025.
Vinata’s aircraft can be used for various applications, including passenger transportation, medical emergencies, and cargo delivery.
Apart from that, ePlane, another Bangalore-based startup, is developing an electric VTOL aircraft that can be used for urban air mobility.
The company is currently developing a prototype aircraft, and they have already secured funding from several prominent investors. ePlane’s aircraft is designed to be quiet and eco-friendly, and it can be used for a variety of applications, including passenger transportation, air taxi services, and cargo delivery.
Road Ahead
Although flying cars will be available soon, it’ll still be some time before they become a mainstream mode of transportation in India. There are several technical and regulatory challenges that need to be overcome before flying cars can become a reality. For example, there is currently no regulatory framework in place for flying cars, and there are significant safety concerns that need to be addressed.
