Based on many predictions, the car of the future is not only electric, but can also fly. It is far from being that far, but according to Airspeeder and Alauda Aeronautics it should all be done faster. This year they want to start racing with the flying Airspeeder MK3.
The name ‘Airspeeder MK3’ already indicates that this is not the first step in the Airspeeder area, but it is the first real step. The MK3 is the first of the series of Airspeeder prototypes to actually be built in full size. The ‘car’ must also actually start racing, albeit with the help of a remote control and therefore without an occupant.
Alauda and Airspeeder – it seems to be one company with both names – call the MK3 a car, but there is of course discussion possible. The cigar-shaped device looks like a cross between a formula racer and a drone, including propellers on all corners of the vehicle. The goal is not to fly very high, but rather to have races take place just above the ground. The highest goal of these races is to gain knowledge about flying in this form, so that the flying car can finally get there.
The MK3 can take off and land vertically. The electric motors deliver a total of 96 kW or 131 hp, but the Airspeeder is said to weigh less than 100 kg. The top speed is currently at 120 km / h, but must increase with the fourth generation – pun intended – to 200 km / h. The MK4 should appear next year and will be the first Airspeeder with a pilot on board.
It must be said: this project does not look very amateurish. The fact that Jaguar Land Rover, McLaren and Boeing are involved in the project, among others, is also suggestive. Airspeeder has indicated that it wants to make more than ten MK3s this year, which, as mentioned, will have to be raced remotely in 2021.