Its nickname is "Liberty." This futuristic vehicle, developed by the Dutch firm PAL-V, might become the first of its kind to receive authorization in Europe.
Pal-V has been developing this flying car prototype since 2008. Known as "Liberty," The three-wheeled vehicle, fitted with a propeller and rotor, received certification in 2020. Its distinctive feature? It is capable of functioning both on land and in the sky!
For the initial time, the European Union Avionics Safety Authority According to the media outlet, (EASA) has provided a technical statement indicating no objections for vehicles of this kind. Demotivateur The Dutch firm Pal-V is presently waiting for the seventh and final phase of certifications from the authorities. EASA , a move that brings its flying car one step nearer to widespread manufacturing and, consequently, market introduction.
A changeover that lasts for 5 minutes, with the clock running.
The initial tests were conducted in 2012. From then on, the "Liberty" model underwent significant modifications. This aircraft-car features dual seating and operates using regular gasoline. Generally speaking, it boasts a total distance capability of 1300 kilometers with a maximum terrestrial velocity of 160 km/h. When airborne, this craft maintains the same speed yet covers less than 500 kilometers. Importantly, it possesses the ability to ascend up to 3,000 meters above ground level. If you’re curious about transitioning times between land travel and flight, understand that switching modes requires merely five minutes—this includes extending the back propeller, activating the principal rotor, along with elevating the frame mechanism.
However, the "Liberty" has some drawbacks: it's not very practical. Indeed, it will need to take off and land from an aerodrome. Moreover, you will need a private or microlight pilot's licence to be able to drive and fly it.
At present, the selling price stands at 299,000 euros (applicable for the base model). As mentioned by Demotivateur, Pal-V has already secured more than 100 definite orders and around a thousand expressions of interest. It is scheduled to commence operations next year.
(MH with Raphaël Liset - Source: Demotivateur - Image: ©Unsplash)