In brief
During a rehearsal for the Changchun Air Show in China, two flying cars from Xpeng AeroHT crashed mid-air, one of which caught fire upon landing. Although authorities ensured the safety of all personnel present, the incident raises critical questions about the safety and regulatory frameworks surrounding emerging aerial technologies. With Xpeng set to market these cars for $300,000 each, the event highlights both the excitement and the challenges of ushering in the 'low-altitude economy.'
Two flying cars crashed into each other at a rehearsal for an air show in China, which was meant to be a showcase for this innovative technology.
The Xpeng AeroHT vehicles collided in mid-air, with one catching fire during landing, as confirmed by the company in a statement to Reuters.
While the company stated that people at the scene were safe, CNN reported that one person was injured in the crash, according to an anonymous company employee.
The rehearsals took place on Tuesday for the upcoming Changchun Air Show, set to begin later this week in north-east China.
Footage on the Chinese social media platform Weibo depicted the wreckage and a flaming vehicle on the ground, being attended to by fire engines.
Xpeng AeroHT stated that one of the vehicles sustained fuselage damage and caught fire upon landing. They assured that all personnel at the scene were safe, and local authorities had successfully completed on-site emergency measures.
The electric flying cars, designed for vertical takeoff and landing, are intended to be sold for around $300,000 (£220,000) each. In January, Xpeng claimed to have around 3,000 orders for the vehicle.
As one of the largest manufacturers of electric vehicles (EVs) worldwide, Xpeng is expanding its market reach into Europe, with these flying cars produced by its subsidiary, AeroHT.
Despite the excitement surrounding flying cars, experts note the considerable hurdles still faced in terms of infrastructure, regulation, and public acceptance. Analysts have suggested that China aims to replicate its success with electric vehicles by promoting early adoption of this technology, as it aspires to lead in the 'low-altitude economy.'
