XPENG AEROHT’s modular flying car, the air module, has been accepted for Type Certificate (TC) application by the Civil Aviation Administration of Central and Southern China (CAAC). This is a significant step for the model as it indicates that the product is set to enter the airworthiness certification phase.
The CAAC is deeply involved in XPENG AEROHT’s model development work to ensure that the product and its components comply with safety regulations and requirements.
The Type Certificate (TC) is an approval of the design of civil aviation products, and this recognition from the authority signifies XPENG AEROHT’s comprehensive capabilities and project feasibility.
XPENG AEROHT’s modular flying car is divided into ground and air modules that can separate and combine autonomously. The air module is the first Chinese-developed manned electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft for individual users. It has safety features like a distributed electric propulsion system and manual/autonomous dual-driving modes. The 270° panoramic two-seat cabin sounds like a fantastic addition to the design.
The ground module is a versatile vehicle with a range-extending electric drive system and off-road capabilities. It has a 4-5 seat intelligent cabin and adopts a three-axis six-wheel design, capable of 6X6 all-wheel drive and rear-wheel steering. Dubbed the land-based “mothership,” the vehicle will be certified according to Chinese mandatory automotive standards in the future.
