Terrafugia details the future shape of its flying car

After getting nod from the US Federal Aviation Authority for the production of its flying car, Terrafugia unveiled the specifications and computer graphics of its next generation flying-car design. While using AirVenture 2010 – world’s biggest aviation industry platform – to detail how the flying car will look like in future, the next generation Transition Roadable Aircraft will feature automotive-style crash safety features, a touch-screen interface, improved wing design and a folding mechanism that can be activated with the press of a button in 30 seconds. Also, there are sleeker lines on the roof than ones that we have seen on its predecessor.

Other prominent transitions in the new concept include crush structure in the nose along with a rigid safety cage, airbags, and a ballistic parachute system. In the improved wing design, there is an optimized airfoil and a pusher propeller with an open empennage that makes efficient use of the 100hp Rotax 912S mid-mounted engine in the flight. When on the ground the transition uses rear wheel drive with a continuously variable transmission and tuned independent suspension. Deliveries of the car is to begin late next year and no price has been fixed yet. However, the flying car is expected to have a price tag somewhere around US$190,000.

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