Xpeng unveils groundbreaking flying car, aiming to redefine mobility

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Xpeng has unveiled its revolutionary “Land Aircraft Carrier,” a hybrid of road and air travel priced at 2 million yuan ($276,000). With over 2,000 pre-orders already secured, the innovation is expected to hit the market in 2026.

“This isn’t just a car; it’s the future of mobility,” said a company spokesperson at the Zhuhai Air Show, where the vehicle debuted. The six-wheeled van combines a powerful hybrid powertrain with a detachable two-seat aircraft, promising a seamless transition between road and sky.

Five cars worth buying if you have an unlimited budget

Tariffs slash Toyota’s profit forecast by $9.5bn, threatening jobs and car prices

The vehicle’s “Mothership,” a 5.5-meter-long, three-axle carrier, runs on an 800V platform with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers in hybrid mode. Its cutting-edge Kunpeng EREV technology delivers high performance while ensuring efficiency. The aircraft module, deployable at the push of a button, boasts a five-minute docking time and can perform five to six flights on a single charge.

Xpeng AeroHT, the company’s flying car division, initially explored rotor-equipped road vehicles but pivoted to the modular design to address technical challenges. “This approach ensures safety and reliability, crucial for mass adoption,” said the team lead at Xpeng AeroHT.

The flying car supports both manual and automatic flight modes. Its automatic features include route planning, one-key return, and precision landing. Meanwhile, the manual system uses a simplified single-lever control, enabling users to master piloting in just three hours.

During a public flight demonstration, the aircraft showcased autonomous low-altitude maneuvers and precision landings. The display highlighted its potential to transform urban transportation by overcoming road congestion. “With this technology, we’re not just imagining the future; we’re building it,” the spokesperson added.

Xpeng, founded in 2013, continues to push the boundaries of electric and autonomous vehicle technology. The Land Aircraft Carrier marks its boldest venture yet, aiming to democratize personal air travel and revolutionize global mobility.