Flying car developed by Brazilian company Eve could be available by 2026
Artist's impression of an eVTOL against blue sky. Photo: Getty — © Getty Images
A flying car is one step closer to airborne reality following successful wind tunnel testing for the futuristic vehicle being developed by Brazilian electric plane maker Eve Holding Inc, the firm announced yesterday.
Eve, controlled by aircraft manufacturer Embraer, said it expects to start commercial operations of its fully electric vehicle in 2026.
The concept, called an electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle, or eVTOL, has been dubbed a flying taxi.
The completed wind tunnel tests are seen as key for certification by regulators, as well as future production and sales to buyers worldwide.
“The information we obtained during this phase of development has helped us further refine the technical solutions of our eVTOL, before committing to production tooling and conforming prototypes,” said Luiz Valentini, Eve’s top technology officer.
The company expects to conclude the selection of main equipment suppliers in the first half of this year and start building its first full-scale prototype in the second half. Additional testing is planned for next year.
Eve holds a backlog of nearly 2,800 orders before starting production, with development backed by investors such as United Airlines and Rolls-Royce.