How come there are no flying cars yet?

In summary: What's the technology behind it anyway?There are a number of different technologies that are required to make a flying car. Some of the technologies that are needed include advanced aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and autonomous flight.What's needed to design a flying car?A number of different skills and knowledge are needed to design a flying car. In addition, a lot of research and development is required to make the flying car practical and safe.In summary, Flying cars are technically possible, but they are very expensive and require a lot of technology. There have been attempts to make flying cars over the years, but all of them have been unsuccessful.
  • #1
kramer733
323
0
This isn't a joke topic but don't we have the technology to make a flying car? What's the technology behind it anyway? What's needed to design a flying car? On another note, I bet my cousin 8 years ago that flying cars wouldn't come into existence as a "standard" in 2010 (we were watching back to the future 2) and i won 10 bucks =)
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Here are some reasons:

1. Not safer than a small airplane,
2. Small airplanes aren't aloud below 1000' over residential area,
3. Small airplanes aren't aloud below 500' anytime except to tale or land,
4. Airplanes in controlled airspace are spaced 500' feet apart vertically,
5. Noise,
6. Autonomy,
7. Cost of vehicle,
8. Cost and trouble of getting the license,
9. Cost of insurance,
10, Cost of maintenance,
11. Not practical,
12. Still too many drunk drivers,
13. etc.
 
  • #3
There are, I've seen one. Although technically, its a "roadable aircraft" and not a "flying car".

Check it out:
http://www.terrafugia.com/
Its pretty cool.

On a related note, we've had the technology to make jet packs since the '60s. Why doesn't everyone have one then? Driving a car is easier, safer, and generally more fuel efficient. Current jet pack designs can only lift a person for a couple of minutes or so before it runs out of fuel. And that's with the equivalent of two scuba tanks on your back. How much would be needed to lift a car for a half hour "drive"?
 
  • #4
The problem with making a flying car, is that you are effectively building a helicopter or VTOL craft. Those are extremely expensive and well out of the price range of the average person. Even a small helicopter designed to transport 4 people or so is many times the price of a car. Not to mention the amount of fuel you would use. All this is in addition to the list that the good Dr. posted above.
 
  • #5
Does anyone remember that cover article from Popular Mechanics back in the early 1990s that said flying cars would be practical and common now?

It gave me a good laugh when I read it back then.
 

Attachments

  • PopularMech.jpg
    PopularMech.jpg
    39.9 KB · Views: 573
Last edited:
  • #6
http://www.moller.com/" is probably the most serious attempt to make a flying car.

For decades, this guy has been developing enough technology to keep funding his dream.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #7
jack action said:
http://www.moller.com/" is probably the most serious attempt to make a flying car.

For decades, this guy has been developing enough technology to keep funding his dream.

No. Moller has developed very little technology himself. He does a good job of borrowing other people's technology and adapting it for use in his flying car, but after fleecing millions of dollars from investors http://www.downside.com/scams/moller/" by promising them "it's just around the corner" and "it's on the horizon," still nothing more than a working prototype.

He had a successful business making mufflers. He's has a lot more success over the years pocketing funds towards a flying car that's never gotten more than 15' off the ground.

kramer733 said:
This isn't a joke topic but don't we have the technology to make a flying car?

Absolutely! http://www.terrafugia.com/".
 
Last edited by a moderator:

FAQ: How come there are no flying cars yet?

1. Why haven't flying cars been invented yet?

Flying cars have been a popular concept and an ongoing topic of research for many decades. However, creating a vehicle that can both fly and drive has proven to be a complex and challenging task. It requires a combination of advanced technology, engineering expertise, and regulatory approval, which takes time and resources to develop.

2. What are the main obstacles in developing flying cars?

One of the main obstacles is the technology required to make a flying car possible. It needs to be able to take off and land vertically, have enough power to sustain flight, and be safe and reliable. Additionally, there are also regulatory challenges and concerns about air traffic control, safety, and environmental impact that need to be addressed before flying cars can become a reality.

3. When can we expect to see flying cars on the roads?

While there have been impressive advancements in the development of flying car prototypes, it is difficult to predict an exact timeline for when they will become a common mode of transportation. This is because it involves not only the technological challenges but also the approval and integration into existing transportation systems and infrastructure.

4. Will flying cars be affordable for the average person?

Initially, flying cars are expected to be very expensive due to the advanced technology and limited production. However, as with any new technology, it is likely that the cost will decrease over time as it becomes more widely adopted. It is also important to consider the potential cost savings in terms of time and convenience that flying cars could offer.

5. What are the potential benefits of flying cars?

Flying cars could potentially revolutionize the way we travel and offer many benefits. They could reduce traffic congestion on the roads, provide faster and more efficient transportation options, and open up new opportunities for remote and rural communities. They could also have a positive impact on the environment by reducing emissions and promoting sustainable travel.

Similar threads

Automotive How Will Future Flying Car Technology Overcome Turbulence?
Replies
2
Views
2K
Automotive How can we improve helicopter technology with a new flying car design?
2
Replies
43
Views
4K
Car in corner -- relative airflow
Replies
20
Views
3K
Automotive What Are the Most Innovative Engine Designs for Custom Cars?
Replies
8
Views
2K
Wind Turbines on Cars: Benefits & Challenges
2
Replies
43
Views
14K
Anyone sick and tired of all the fancy techy stuffs?
Replies
17
Views
497
Airplane wings -- How do they work and why do they change shape?
3
Replies
81
Views
9K
Could a Gas Trailer Extend an Electric Car's Range?
Replies
24
Views
3K
I Roulette system -- which optimization is better?
Replies
11
Views
3K
How Can We Design a Compressed Air Car for 300 km Travel?
3
Replies
82
Views
24K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top