<a href="https://autoglobalnews.com/geely-galaxy-starshine-6-phev-challenges-byd-in-compact-ev-segment/” style=”color:#1a73e8;text-decoration:underline;” title=”Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 PHEV Challenges BYD in Compact EV S”>BYD has denied rumors that it will launch a flying car after an AI-generated video went viral over the weekend. The company’s general manager of brand and public relations, Li Yunfei, confirmed on Weibo that BYD does not have plans to develop or release such vehicles.
Key Takeaways
- BYD denies rumors about launching flying cars despite AI-generated videos circulating online.
- Xpeng’s Aridge subsidiary is moving forward with mass production of its modular flying car by 2026.
- The Chinese market could see over 100,000 eVTOLs in households and as air taxis by 2030 according to a recent report.
Over the weekend, an AI-generated video surfaced online suggesting BYD’s ultra-luxury sub-brand Yangwang would launch a flying car called Ufly. The company quickly clarified that these reports are false and reiterated their commitment to focusing on electric vehicles for now.
Xpeng’s Aridge subsidiary is taking a different approach by establishing a factory in Guangzhou aimed at mass-producing its modular flying car, the A868. This vehicle can carry six passengers and boasts an impressive range of over 500 kilometers when fully charged. Xpeng plans to start delivering these vehicles as early as 2026.
Other Chinese automakers like Chery, GAC Group, Chang’an Automobile, FAW Group are also developing their own flying car products in response to the growing demand for eVTOLs (electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles). The China Low Altitude Economic Alliance predicts that by 2030, there could be over 100,000 such aircraft operating as air taxis or owned privately.
Despite BYD’s denial of flying car plans, the trend towards eVTOLs is clear. With multiple manufacturers entering this space and a growing market demand, it seems that while BYD isn’t jumping on board just yet, others are betting big on the future of aerial transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BYD still working on flying cars?
No, BYD has denied all rumors about developing or releasing a flying car. They have no such plans at the moment.
When can we expect Xpeng’s Aridge A868 to be available for purchase?
Xpeng’s Aridge subsidiary aims to start mass production and delivery of its modular flying car, the A868, by 2026.
The buzz around eVTOLs shows no signs of slowing down. While BYD isn’t joining in on this particular trend just yet, other major players like Xpeng are preparing for a future where air taxis and personal aerial vehicles might become commonplace.
