Boffins have developed a “flying saucer” aircar that looks straight out of a sci-fi film.
The vehicle can carry four people and manoeuvre through tight urban spaces.
Built by Dianying Technology in Wuhan, China, its sleek shape resembles a spacecraft.
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Unlike conventional aircraft, it has no exposed wings or rotors – its eight propulsion units are fully integrated into the fuselage.
It takes off and lands vertically, gliding silently through cities, as reported by Need To Know.
Company chairman Cai Xiaodong said the aircraft, six years in the making, is highly safe.
“Our goal was to create a new type of urban transport for short trips with frequent use,” he explained.
“Early on, when I was sketching its design with a colleague from an aerospace background, he blurted out, ‘How is this even possible?’
“Six years later, we made it a reality. The key breakthrough of the Dianying Flying Car is its eight ‘invisible wings’ tucked inside the fuselage.
“Each is a fully enclosed ducted fan producing 150kg of lift, and together they can hoist the 1.2‑tonne vehicle.”
The fans spin at no less than 6,000rpm – three times faster than ordinary multi-rotor drones.
“It can take off and land in a 30‑sq‑m parking space, fly close to buildings, and weave through narrow streets,” Cai added.
So far, the aircar has completed more than 130 test flights, with engineers constantly fine-tuning the design.
Its creators say it could be used for aerial rescue, sightseeing, and even cleaning tall buildings.
Cargo transport is expected later this year, with passenger flights planned for 2027.
The team hopes to keep the target price under 2m CNY (£217,379).
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