Flying car makes first public flight in Dubai; See Pics

Offering a glimpse of futuristic technology that could one day whisk people through cities high above any traffic, a "flying car" built by Chinese electronic vehicle maker Xpeng Inc made its first public flight in the United Arab Emirates. The XPeng X2, developed by the Guangzhou-based XPeng Inc's aviation affiliate, is one of the dozens of flying car projects around the world.

Flying car makes first public flight in Dubai; See Pics

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The X2 is a two-seater electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that is lifted by eight propellers, two at each corner of the vehicle. Credit: Reuters Photo

This unmanned 90-minute test flight was described by its manufacturer as an

However, the company said it carried out a manned flight test in July 2021. Credit: Reuters. Photo

The sleek vehicle can carry two passengers. Credit: Reuters Photo

The company says it has a top speed of 130 km (80 miles) per hour. Credit: Reuters Photo

Unlike airplanes and helicopters, eVTOL, or “electric vertical takeoff and landing”, vehicles offer quick point-to-point personal travel, at least in principle. Credit: AFP Photo

The unmanned vehicles could one day ferry passengers across town, high above congested roadways. But the sector still faces major challenges, including battery life, air traffic control and safety, and infrastructure issues. Credit: Reuters Photo

Guests check out the XPeng eVTOL flying car X2 in Dubai. Credit: Reuters Photo