Saturday, April 30, 2016

Vaporwheels: 10 insane cars too ambitious for reality

Vaporware products are the ultimate tease, and companies big and small are guilty of shelling them out. Computer hardware and video game brands are probably the biggest culprits out there, but in terms of big promises with little payoff, the car world is more than well-versed.

We've seen it all in the automotive space — flying cars, bizarre concepts, and dubious speed machines (looking at you, Devel Sixteen) — so in celebration, we're counting down our 10 favorite cars that never were. Hop on board the vaporware express and let's get started.

10. Terrafugia Transition

Aircraft manufacturer Terrafugia is a constant source of amusement and frustration in our industry, as the Massachusetts firm has been drumming up interest for its unique flying vehicles since 2006. The Transition — a 400-mile roadable aircraft with a steering wheel as well as a control stick  — has been the main lightning rod for Terrafugia over the last few years, but the company's Jetsons-esque TF-X made waves in 2015 for its semi-autonomous flight capabilities and plug-in hybrid drivetrain.

Why are these unbelievable creations so low on our list? The brand actually appears to be making progress. Terrafugia was granted FAA approval to test its products last year, and a proof-of-concept Transition made a successful maiden voyage in 2009. Initial deliveries are scheduled to begin sometime in the next couple years, but as with most flying cars, we're not exactly holding our breath.


Source: Vaporwheels: 10 insane cars too ambitious for reality

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