The Transition from Woburn, Massachusetts based company
Terrafugia is the closest vehicle yet to a viable flying
car.
Every pilot faces uncertain weather, rising costs, and
ground transportation hassles on each end of the flight.
The Transition helps to cut down these problems because
of its unique abilities.
The Terrafugia Transition combines the convenience of
being able to fold its wings with the ability to drive
on any smooth road. Stowing the wings for road use and
deploying them for flight at the airport is activated
from inside the cockpit. During flight the Transition
has a 115mph cruise speed and a range of 460 miles. The
on-road speed is a slow but useful 65 mph.
Useful and convenient features of the Terrafugia Transition
include automotive-style entry and exit, automated electromechanical
folding wings and a cargo area capable of holding golf
clubs, fishing poles or skis.
Safety features of the Transition include a front wheel
drive layout for use on the road, proven 100hp Rotax 912S
engine, and an optional full vehicle parachute.
In order to operate the Terrafugia Transition a Sport
Pilot license is the minimum requirement. This can be
achieved in as little as 20 hours of flight time.
Terrafugia intend to deliver the first Transitions in
2010.
Similar and related vehicles:
Challis Heliplane
Moller M400 Skycar
PALV
Avrocar
Bell X-22
NASA AD-1
Convair XFY-1 POGO
H-4 Spruce Goose
Messerschmitt Me 323 gigant
Leduc Ramjet
Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne
Gossamer Albatross
Saab 210 'Lill Draken'
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