The inaugural cross-river flight of the Xpeng X2, the world's innovative flying car, marks a historic milestone in transportation technology. Spanning a distance of 1.5 km, the flight showcased the Xpeng X2's prowess and endurance, lasting a remarkable four minutes. Prior to this groundbreaking feat, the Xpeng X2 diligently underwent an extensive series of nearly 4,000 test flights, affirming its reliability and cutting-edge design.

Flying Car Turns into Reality: Cross River Flight

According to information shared by Supercar Blondie, the visually striking Xpeng X2, often likened to a vehicle from a science fiction film, has achieved an impressive milestone by successfully conducting its debut cross-river flight over the Xiang river in Changsha, China. Reportedly, the flying car ascended from the left bank of the river and safely touched down at Zhoutou Square, traversing a distance of 1.5 km (0.93 mi) and maintaining flight for a duration of four minutes.

The prototype X2 from the Chinese company boasts a flight duration of approximately 35 minutes on a three-hour charge, and with ongoing advancements, we can anticipate further enhancements in the near future.

Differing from consumer drones, which typically feature four motors, the Xpeng X2 stands out as an octocopter, featuring pairs of engines and propellers on each "arm." This configuration not only delivers additional thrust but also offers redundancy, ensuring the aircraft's ability to sustain flight even if one motor were to fail. Crafted primarily from carbon materials, the X2 exhibits a curb weight of 680 kg and, designed as a two-seater, has the capacity to accommodate a maximum payload of 160 kg.

AeroHT, the startup spearheading this endeavor, asserts that this marks the inaugural cross-river flight for a flying car in China, representing a pivotal advancement in the realm of flying car technology.

Preceding the momentous cross-river flight, the Xpeng X2 diligently underwent an extensive series of nearly 4,000 test flights, encompassing a range of application scenarios including urban CBDs, sea areas, and deserts.

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The Beginning of Flying Car Concept by Xpeng

According to a report by dezeen in 2021, During its annual 1024 Tech Day event, XPeng, a prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, unveiled its concept for a groundbreaking flying car that is slated for potential release as early as 2024.

At the event, XPeng presented renderings of the innovative electric flying vehicle, which not only possesses the ability to take flight but also to navigate regular roadways. HT Aero, an urban air mobility (UAM) affiliate of the company, is spearheading the development of the road-capable flying car.

Distinguishing itself from prevailing UAM vehicle concepts, HT Aero's creation aims to seamlessly transition between terrestrial and aerial operations, featuring a foldable dual rotor mechanism for the transformation from a car to a flying apparatus.

The renders indicate that the vehicle will boast a steering wheel for driving purposes and a single lever to facilitate flight. As per a report from TechCrunch, Xpeng's ambition is to offer the vehicle at a retail price of less than one million Chinese yuan (£114,000), presenting a more restrained approach than what is depicted in the current renderings.

The vehicle is set to incorporate an environmental perception system capable of assessing the surroundings and weather conditions to ensure secure take-off and landing at the intended location.

Despite being manually operated, the vehicle will employ a perception and flight control algorithm to assist the pilot in maneuvering around obstacles during flight.

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