The future is closer than we think. While you might still associate flying cars with the sci-fi genre, the first flying car was just certified for takeoff, awarded an official Certificate of Airworthiness by the Slovak Transport Authority. Developed in Slovakia by Klein Vision, the AirCar is a vehicle capable of transforming into an aircraft, taking to the skies to transport its passengers to their destination. The AirCar has been promised to be sold commercially beginning in 2023, and if you’re considering a career as an auto mechanic, it’s possible that you’ll be able to see this vehicle in action.
Few models like the AirCar have received official certification, yet in the future, it’s possible that we’ll see the tides turn as more manufacturers delve into the realm of flying cars. Below, discover everything you need to know about the AirCar as an automotive school student.
Developing the AirCar
As one can imagine, the AirCar took a lot of time and brain power to come to fruition. Stefan Klein, a professor and founder of Klein Vision, has been working to bring the AirCar to life for over 30 years with a team of eight specialists. In order to create the AirCar, drawings were first converted to 3D models and subjected to wind tunnel testing. Eventually, the life-sized AirCar was developed, and named Prototype 1. In order to receive certification, the AirCar had to complete more than 200 supervised takeoffs and landings, which aligned with the regulations set by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). As an auto mechanic training student, you’ll also be interested to know that the AirCar has even completed a 35-minute test flight between two airports in Slovakia! Check out the flight here:
The AirCar’s Specs: A rundown for Auto Mechanic Training Students
Surprisingly, the AirCar’s 1.6L BMW engine can be fueled at the same gas station you might take your vehicle to, increasing opportunities for their mass production. The AirCar can reach a maximum cruising altitude of 8,200 feet, achieving a cruising speed of 170 kilometers per hour. It takes just 2 minutes and 15 seconds to transition from vehicle to aircraft, propelled by 160 horsepower. The AirCar can fit two passengers, and holds up to 440 lbs in combined weight. This innovative model is estimated to reach a top speed of 300 kilometers per hour, with a range of 1000 kilometers. Considered more fuel efficient than a typical aircraft, in the future, we may see more AirCars replacing helicopters.
A Driver’s License Won’t Be Enough to Operate the AirCar
While the AirCar could be set to change the future of the automotive industry, not all drivers will be able to take this vehicle for a spin. Unfortunately, the AirCar can only be operated by professionals with a pilot’s license. When you think about it, that’s probably for the best. Regardless, the AirCar’s recent certification is sure to have a big impact on the future of efficient middle-distance travel, with the opportunity it provides to get from Point A to Point B with minimal delay. While it’s safe to say that regular vehicles will be here to stay for a while, there’s no telling what the future of flying cars will hold once you become an auto mechanic and throughout the length of your career.
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