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The technology behind a flying car, originally developed and successfully test-flown in Europe, has been purchased by a Chinese firm.
Klein Vision, the Slovakian company that created the AirCar, has sold the exclusive rights to manufacture and use the aircraft within a “specific geographical region” of China to Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company.
Stefan Klein, Chairman of the Board at Klein Vision, said: “We are pleased to announce the sale of the license for our certified flying car technology to the esteemed Chinese company.”
The AirCar, powered by a BMW engine and conventional fuel, made headlines when it completed a successful 35-minute flight between two Slovakian airports in 2021. The vehicle seamlessly transitions from a car to an aircraft in just over two minutes, utilising standard runways for take-off and landing.
Anton Zajac, Co-Founder of Klein Vision, confirmed the acquisition, highlighting the establishment of an airport and flight school by the Chinese firm following a prior acquisition from a Slovakian aircraft manufacturer.
“This partnership represents a significant step in our mission to expand global access to revolutionary mobility solutions and drive progress in the industry,” commented Zajac.
China’s interest in flying transport solutions is evident, with recent developments such as the test flight of a passenger-carrying drone by Autoflight between Shenzhen and Zhuhai—completing a journey that typically takes three hours by car in just 20 minutes.
Moreover, eHang – a Chinese firm – received a safety certificate for its electric flying taxi in 2023, underscoring the nation’s commitment to embracing innovative transportation technologies.
While the UK Government recently set out its vision to have flying taxis becoming commonplace by 2028, AirCar’s distinct operational model – which relies on conventional runways rather than vertical take-off and landing – sets it apart from drone-like passenger aircraft.
Despite its potential, the adoption of flying cars faces challenges related to infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and public acceptance.
The financial terms of the technology transfer remain undisclosed, yet the sale of AirCar technology prompts reflections on China’s evolving role in the flying car market, reminiscent of its leadership in the electric vehicle sector.
As global efforts to regulate this emerging sector intensify, the sale of Slovakian AirCar technology to China underscores the growing prominence of flying cars in the future of transportation.
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