Aston Martin Concept Takes Aim at the Sky
Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. unveiled an autonomous commuter plane concept this week at the U.K.’s Farnborough Airshow.
Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. unveiled an autonomous commuter plane concept this week at the U.K.’s Farnborough Airshow.
The carmaker envisions the luxury three-seater—dubbed the Volante Vision Concept—as a “sports car for the skies.”
The electric-hybrid propulsion system features a large horizontal propeller at the rear and two tilted units in front. Aston Martin says the aircraft has vertical take-off and landing capabilities. Top speed is estimated at about 200 mph.
The carmaker partnered with Cranfield University, Cranfield Aerospace Solutions and British jet engine maker Rolls-Royce to develop the concept vehicle. Some design cues from Aston Martin cars were incorporated into the plane, including a grille-like airfoil and styling from the Volante hypercar.
No other details were provided. But Aston Martin released an animated video of how such a plane could be used in the future.
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