Flying car 'expected on market in 2018' as waiting list opens for future of personal travel

A flying car will be on the market in two to three years according to its manufacturer - so if you want one, it's time to sign up.

Science fiction has moved a step closer with the launch of the PAL-V, the personal land and air vehicle that can fly and run on roads.

PAL-V Europe NV, the Dutch company behind the futuristic gadget, recently bagged a patent for the technology in India and have opened waiting lists for those who wish to purchase one when they are released.

The three-wheeled vehicle is said to have the comfort of a car and the agility of a motorcycle on the road, thanks to its patented, cutting-edge, 'tilting' system.

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But when you want an extra lift, it can be driven to the nearest airfield and take off just like any other aeroplane when its single rotor and propeller unfold.

The PAL-V hopes to change the future of personal travel as we know it

Robert Dingemanse, chief executive officer, PAL-V Europe NV, says the company has received interests from government institutions, hospitals and the tourism sector.

The vehicle has 'the comfort of a car and the handling of a motorcycle'

"Companies like the Sahara Group in Mumbai have shown interest in using PAL-V's for tourist mobility and sightseeing applications.

"Driving and flying with one vehicle opens up a complete new set of applications people until now could only dream of," he told Business Standard.

The vehicle cruises at below 4,000ft, which means it isn't subject to air traffic controls like larger craft

The company's website explains: "When airborne, the PAL-V ONE usually flies below 4,000 feet, the airspace available for uncontrolled Visual Flight Rules traffic, so there will be no interference from commercial air traffic."

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Running on petrol, the craft can reach speeds of up to 112 mph both on land and in the air.

The manufacturer says that the car will revolutionise commuting

The site adds: "It is quieter than helicopters due to the slower rotation of the main rotor. It takes off and lands with low speed, cannot stall, and is very easy to control.

"The gyroplane technology means that it can be steered and landed safely even if the engine fails, because the rotor keeps auto rotating."

It's been said that the PAL-V will reach top speeds of 111mph on land and in the air

The expect price in Europe for the vehicle is expected to be around €499,000, or £390,532, with a limited supply being shipped from the Netherlands within the first three to five years.

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Source: Flying car 'expected on market in 2018' as waiting list opens for future of personal travel