A startup in China has announced a plan to build an electric VTOL flying car that appears to touch all the bases. The project has backing from parent company Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC). GAC is a significant player in the Chinese plug-in electric vehicle market, so the finance should be there.
The Govy AirJet Electric VTOL Flying Car
GAC launched startup Govy, called Gaoyu in China, on December 18, 2024. Car News China confirms that their electric VTOL flying car targets the low-altitude robo-air-taxi economy. The flying vehicle will be more sophisticated than their earlier Gove pod, which takes off from a land-based vehicle.
The latest Govy flying vehicle design allows it to transition from terrestrial driving to full aerial flight by switching between these modes:
- Ground mode when it operates like a standard electric vehicle, for access to parking and roads.
- Vertical take-off mode above ground in preparation for flying away, or returning to the ground.
- Flight mode where it navigates the urban landscape at low altitudes, to complete each journey.
The Govy light electric aircraft sources its energy from lithium-ion batteries as far as we can make out, delivering a 125-mile flying range. Although GasGoo suggests future versions may have double that range with GAC’s proprietary solid-state batteries.
More About the Specification and the Design
Website Lanoticia Digital advises that the air frame comprises lightweight advanced fiber composites, while the high-performance electric drive system is able to recharge within 30 minutes.
The two single seats are in a tandem arrangement, with a double one at the rear. Plus there is storage for light baggage at the front of the cabin.
We understand that Goby intends to create an all-inclusive, low-altitude air transport service integrated within the broader transportation system. Their first demonstration VTOL should be ready by 2027. according to plans.
More Information
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