Aston Martin's Vision Volante Concept
Aston Martin
Aston Martin is ready for take-off: the UK sports carmaker has showcased its air travel solution, the Vision Volante Concept aircraft, at the Farnborough International Airshow. The vehicle is an autonomous hybrid-electric compact aircraft that can seat up to three passengers and has vertical take-off and landing capabilities. The model is powered by three propellers: two pivoted propellers at the front and one fixed propeller at the rear. The concept aircraft has been developed in collaboration with Cranfield University, Cranfield Aerospace Solutions and Rolls-Royce.
Self-flying and luxurious
The Vision Volante Concept differs from similar concepts in that it has luxurious features. "With the population in urban areas continuing to grow, congestion in towns and cities will become increasingly demanding. We need to look at alternative solutions to reduce congestion, cut pollution and improve mobility. Air travel will be a crucial part in the future of transportation. The Volante Vision Concept is the ultimate luxury mobility solution", explains Aston Martin’s CEO Andy Palmer. The company has not yet revealed performance data for the Vision Volante Concept.
Several companies are currently developing similar one- or two-seater aircraft. These include German companies Lilium, based in Munich, and Volocopter, based in Bruchsal. Airbus and Italdesign are, however, also working on a modular electric aircraft. It was recently announced that the German city of Ingolstadt is to become a test field for air-taxis.