Audi cooperates with Airbus and Italdesign to create a future flying car

As time goes by, technology is now increasingly developed and sophisticated. Not surprisingly, if nowadays many findings are unexpected even thought for a long time but have not been realized because of the limited technology in past. Call it one product that was successfully created thanks to the use of the latest technology is the flying cars.

Audi Pop.Up Next flying car concept developed along with Airbus and Italdesign has been shown at the Geneva International Motor Show 2018. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2PgadtM)

Lately, the flying cars have been developed both by airlines and automotive manufacturers. As created by Audi which works together with a French commercial aircraft manufacturers, Airbus and the provider of development services for the automotive industry, Italdesign.

Those three big companies have succeeded in making the flying car. Not only make, they also plan to do testing it in the air. And reportedly, the testing process of the flying car has been approved by the German government.

As reported by Carscoops, the car that has two seats will conduct a flight test in Ingolstadt, Germany. If the flying car manages to undergo the entire trial process and fly smoothly on the sky, the car will be produced in limited quantities and used as the flying taxi.

Left side view of Audi Pop.Up Next flying car concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2OCIdkw)

"Flying taxi is no longer a vision, they can bring us into new mobility. This is a great opportunity for old and new companies to develop new technologies, "said German Transportation Minister, Andreas Scheuer.

Recently, they also have introduced this flying car in March 2018 at the Geneva Motor Show 2018 automotive exhibition. And the flying car that is still in the form of the concept is named Audi Pop.Up Next.

This flying car is based on electricity and has implemented autonomous technology as well. This two passengers compact designed vehicle also has land and air modules. Yes, so as not to be too heavy, the manufacturers decided to make the car's body from carbon fiber materials. And the Pop.Up Next has a dimension of 2.6 meters long, 1.4 meters high and 1.5 meters wide.

Interior view of Audi Pop.Up Next flying car concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2OCIdkw)

On the landline modules, the Pop.Up Next relies on two electric motors that have a battery capacity of 15 kWh. And Audi promises the Pop.Up Next can spit out power equivalent to 80 horsepower and is believed to be able to drive 130 km for a single fully battery charge.

As for the flying modules that are equipped with four propellers like drones. Each propeller is powered by an electric motor of 26 horsepower which is packed with a battery with a capacity of 70 kWh.

Rear view of Audi Pop.Up Next flying car concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2PgadtM)

When the flight mode is activated, the maximum power that can be produced by all propellers is reach out 214 hp. For maximum speed when adjusting the flight module, it is possible for the Pop.Up Next to reach a top speed of up to 120 km/hour.

Furthermore, this Pop.Up Next only has a range of 50 km with a single fully battery charge. If the battery runs out, this capsule must be recharged for 15 minutes to be able operated again.

The Pop.Up Next is claimed to be the right solution to overcome the density of traffic in big cities. The passengers just sit down calmly and input their destination, then the system will drive and fly it automatically.

Unfortunately, so far there has been no detail information about when the Pop.Up Next is produced and sold to the public. Well, we'll wait for the next infos of this flying car. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOBLOG | PHYS.ORG | CARSCOOPS]

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An AirSpaceX's Autonomous Flying Taxi Concept

Autonomous and electric-powered vehicles have changed the face of land transportation, then the evolution of energy that accompanied it inspired many to continue to adopt these technology.

And it seems also that has helped inspire the Airspace Experience Technologies (AirSpaceX) to develop a concept of air transportation system by initiating a flying taxi project called MOBi-ONE. These concept has been introduced to the public at the 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) event in Detroit, United States some time ago.

MOBi-ONE is designed to ease traffic congestion and speed up urban commutes. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yxwtoI)

This aircraft was designed and manufactured by Detroit Aircraft (DAC) which is a subsidiary of AirSpaceX at Detroit City Airport.

And later, after MOBi ONE has undergone the entire Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification process, it will be operated by AirSpaceX. Since 2011, the company and its partners have collaborated to create prototypes and develop several designs from the VTOL concept itself.

AirSpaceX shows off its MOBi-ONE model at the North American International Auto Show 2018. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yxwtoI)

The MOBi-ONE is designed as an autonomous vehicle, which can carry 2 to 4 passengers or cargo above 200 kg/440 lbs to an area that is within 60 miles (96 km), including the airport and city center. Its VTOL design allows it to take off like a helicopter, then positioned its wings and fly like a plane with a top speed of 250 mph (402 km/jam).

Left side view of AirSpaceX MOBi-ONE model. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yxwtoI)

Passengers will be treated to broadband connectivity for high-speed internet access and can enjoy the flights safely and comfortably in a V2X collision avoidance system and a security message system. MOBi-ONE is able to learn by itself and will eventually be able to operate without a pilot. But for now, there are still pilots accompanying it during the flight.

Right side view of AirSpaceX MOBi-ONE model. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yxwtoI)

According to Jon Rimanelli, the Detroit Aircraft and AirSpaceX's founder and CEO said that the MOBi-ONE will ultimately offer environmentally friendly, quiet and timely air travel at reasonable prices. But Rimanelli did not disclose how much it would cost per trip.

Rimanelli also claims the MOBi-ONE will be ready for demonstrations starting in 2020. Furthermore, JP Yorro, at AirSpaceX's Chief Commercial Officer said, that the plans to launch 2,500 MOBI-ONE aircraft by 2026, which will be distributed in the 50 major cities in the United States.

#AirSpaceX is taking #NAIASDetroit to new heights today. Visit the Atrium stage at 2:20pm to learn more about MOBi-ONE from our amazing team. pic.twitter.com/rzuWcRjH4Y

— ASX (@airspace_x) January 16, 2018

The MOBi-ONE has the potential to be used more than just a taxi. This can also be used for medical and evacuation purposes, as well as research and surveillance operations. While AirSpaceX believes that the MOBI-ONE concept will reduce the urban's road traffic and travel time.

And these company is not the only one that developed the concept of flying taxis, there are Uber and NASA, and then there're Airbus and Boeing with Near Earth Autonomy, also has the concept of flying taxis. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AIRSPACEX | NEW ATLAS | CISION]

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Dubai Police presenting a Hoversurf in Gitex Technology Week

In an annual technology exhibition called the Gitex Technology Week is currently taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 8-12, 2017, the Dubai Police presented various their support tools either in use today or for the future. One of them, a Hoversuf-flying patrol vehicle.

The Hoversurf-flying patrol vehicle of Dubai Police was shown at Gitex Technology Week. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2kGzkrG)

As quoted of The National, these device used to prevent and fight criminality in the future and referred to as the latest innovations of Dubai Police.

The Hoversurf exactly is a blend of a motorcycle and drones. It will be used to the police patrol duty with a human pilot or remotely. Hoversurf suitable used for patrols in various terrains, such as hilly and rocky terrains including deserts and beaches as well.

Hoversurf is equipped with 4 propellers in each corner, allowing to fly as high as 5 meters above the surface if directly drive by one man. But if flown by remotely control like a drone, the Hoversurf can drift up to a height of 6,000 meters.

The Hoversurf can seat a police office or be flown remotely. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2gchXhb)

These Hoversurf-flying motorcycle uses the battery that allowing it to float for 25 minutes if its battery in fully charged condition, but it can fly for 1 hour if using a machine. It has loading capacity reaches 300 kg, and a maximum cruising speeds reach 70 km/h. 

If noticed, how's it work is similar to the Kitty Hawk Flyer of San Francisco, United States as in the following video.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops.... ••• [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THE NATIONAL]

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Russian sophisticated heavy transport helicopter will soon strengthen the Indonesian military

Indonesian Army (TNI AD) was not only strengthen its helicopter fleets with the legendary US helicopter CH-47F Chinook. And as to which reported on the latest news that the Army Aviation Center (Puspenerbad) instead planned to purchase the Russian heavy transport helicopter to strengthen its helicopter fleets starting from 2018 to 2019.

Russian heavy transport helicopter Mil Mi-26T2. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2wshKgL)

The plan first surfaced through Indonesian Army (TNI AD) internal magazine, Palagan, on last March 2017 edition. In details mentioned that it will be purchased was the Mi-26T2 Halo, one of the newest types of Mi-26 Halo helicopter family made by the Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant, part of the Russian Helicopters. Thus Indonesia immediately followed Algeria, Venezuela who had already used it to strengthen their helicopter fleets.

Cockpit view of Russian heavy transport helicopter Mil Mi-26T2. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yapzUK)

As it is known that Mi-26T2 is a helicopter variant which was first launched in 2011. Thanks to a number of changes on the avionics side, the Mi-26T2 was later developed by the OJSC Ramenskoe Instrument Design Bureau (RKPB).

One of Mil Mi-26T2 heavy transport helicopter of Algerian AIr Force. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yapzUK)

On the RKPB's hand, these Mi-26T2 helicopter went through a revolution. The helicopter from heavy-lift transport class then has a glass cockpit with LCD, control panel, airborne computer and infrared tracking system. Even if desired, the Mi-25T2 helicopter can also be equipped with TSL-1600 Tranzas device, an additional instrument to support night flight by adopting night vision goggles (NVG).

Other avionics features installed on the Mi-26T2 helicopter such as BREO-26 digital avionics suite to improve flight stability and control in various conditions and terrain. Then there is the NPK 90-2 flight and navigation system combined with AVSTAR/GLONASS satellite based communication system. The Mi-25T2 is also equipped airborne flight recorder system, backup device system, on-board control system, and a gyro stabilized optoelectronic clock system.

Russian heavy transport helicopter Mil Mi-26T2 on action. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2fi1c3r)

On engine's side, the Mi-26T2 also has been modernized by using the new Ivchenko-Progress D-136-2 turbo engine from Motor Sich. The machine has a Full Authority Automatic Control (FADEC) technology. This machine is capable of spraying power of 11,650 hp and can be increased to 12,500 hp in a short time, for emergency conditions. 

The new engine is also capable of showing a steady performance even though the helicopter is assigned in hot areas and at altitudes. Standard fly helicopter cruising distance reached 800 km with a maximum speed of 295 kph, but with an extra fuel tank, mileage of this helicopter can be increased up to 1,905 km.

The Mi-26T2 is the world's largest helicopter operated today with a maximum takeoff weight of 56 tons and is capable of carrying a total cargo weighing of 20 tons. It is certain that this helicopter is able to carry the BMP-3F amphibious tank which is the mainstay of Indonesian Marines or Ural 4320 trucks.

For military mobility business for example, this helicopter can even match the capacity of C-130 Hercules to load a company of infantry troops with complete weaponry can be directly transported. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RADAR MILITER | GARDA NASIONAL]

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These flying cars to be launched in 2020?

After 15 years of developing flying cars, the Urban Aeronautics optimistic to launch their flying car. The flying car named 'The Cormorant' can carry weights up to 500 kilograms and capable of flying at speeds of 185 kilometers per hour.

Rafi Yoeli, founder and CEO of Urban Aeronautics, stands next to a prototype of the Cormorant, a drone, at the company's workshop in Yavne, Israel December 22, 2016. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1hctX5)

According to the founder and CEO of Urban Aeronautics, Rafi Yoeli, the car that use an internal rotor can evacuate victims of armed conflict. In addition, these flying car can be used by the military as a vehicle to avoid the bombs.

"Just imagine, this car can pass through a bomb planted in the city and other dangerous chemical ingredients to be controlled remotely," said Yeoli as quoted from Reuters on Wednesday, January 4, 2017.

A prototype of the Cormorant, a drone, is pictured at Urban Aeronautics' workshop in Yavne, Israel December 22, 2016. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1hctX5)

The owner of the company was convinced that the vehicle has a size of a family car, could soon be resolved. Even so, he explained there are some improvements to be made before it is finally launched to the market. Yes, the Cormorant previously called AirMule has a size of a family car and weighs about 1.5 tons. Up to recent research, Yoeli has spent about 14 million dollars, equivalent to Rp.188 billion.

Nevertheless the two creations of Yoeli, until now not yet meet the standards of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The test results in November 2016 said there was a problem regarding the data sent by the sensor device of the flying car. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | REUTERS]

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Seeing the flying electric-powered bike

You may have heard riders saying that bike riding feels like flying a small plane at low altitude. What if I tell you such thing is possible if you have some US. $100,000 (or equivalent to Rp.1.3 billion) laying around? 

The Flike is a flying motorcycle you can have for $100k in future. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1fyZpd)

The Flike is the first manned tricopter concept demonstrator hovers and built in Hungary. As quoted from Autoevolution on Friday, November 18, 2016, the Flike is a crossover between a motorcycle and a helicopter, allowing you the pleasures of both sports in one transportation device.

The vehicle similar to the large-sized drone, was created only for one person only as its rider or pilot. With three large propeller, in which the propeller has two electric motors and make it able to fly for an hour.

The flying motorcycle is claimed can be flown up to a height of approximately 30 meters, while its speed able to reach up to 100 kilometers per hour. But unfortunately, this flying bike does not have a proper and safe cabin for the rider or pilot.

With its three blades, this flying motorcycle is able to lift a rider with a maximum weight of 100 kg. Do you want to have it? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION]

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Lexus spaceship featured in an upcoming Hollywood sci-fi movie

Collaboration between the auto makers with the movie makers are already common. Usually, the latest cars starred a particular television series. You can see an example of some of the Hollywood's box-office movies such as "Fast and Furious", "Transformers", or "James Bond".

But, what if the film tells the story of the 28th centuries? Of course there is no manufacturer that has been producing or designing a car for use in next few centuries. In addition, by using a car with today's technology for the film tells the story of human life in the next 700 years certainly not realistic.

Lexus future spaceship named SkyJet had been featured in Luc Besson's upcoming sci-fi movie. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1g0qzQ)

Lexus faced this challenge when collaborating with renowned movie director Luc Besson in making the movie titled "Valerian and the City with a Thousand Planets," a science fiction film that will be aired in July 2017 and is an adaptation of a comic titled "Valerian and Laureline".

In the film, starring by Clive Owen, Ethan Hawke, and Rihanna, one of the future vehicles of Lexus has been shown up on the screen. The vehicle named SkyJet was designed by Lexus in collaborating with creative team of Valerian movie.

Front view of Lexus SkyJet 28th centuries spaceship. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1g0t5u)

SkyJet itself was designed by Takeaki Kato, head engineer of Lexus and a Japanese design firm who commissioned to design a picture of the universe in the 28th century. They created a spaceship with one passenger that streaking like a jet, but still similar to the Lexus cars that existed now.

In the trailers that have been released, the car looks like flying whales streaking in a corridor of the city of the future named Alpha. If you are observant, you will see the Lexus logo on the tip of the SkyJet snout.

"In this partnership, we look for a brand that pioneered the innovation and technology, which is more focused on the future rather than the past," said Luc Besson in a statement. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION]

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These aircraft offer an amazing experience

Windspeed Technologies, an aerospace company currently designing an airplane that has a solution to reduce boredom when inside the cabin. Windspeed are designing SkyDeck aircraft, which is basically the equivalent of aeronautics for the panoramic sunroof.

The SKyDeck offer an amazing experience while on long-distance flight. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1dD5Iq)

As reported by Autoevolution on Monday, December 14, 2015, the basic idea of ​​making this aircraft is to be entertained while on the flight, which is often tedious if in the long-distance flights. Windspeed have a solution that passengers do not feel bored while traveling.

Therefore, the aircraft is designed to use a transparent canopy and passenger seat therein that may arise to the top of the plane' cabin in order to see the scenery while traveling. After making the development of more than one year, the project is finally ready to be implemented.

The transparent canopy located on the SkyDeck, will be as strong as the other aircraft exterior parts. The materials used are also able to withstand all kinds of bad weather.

The biggest problem in coming up with a functional design is aerodynamic interference with the aircraft's tail. It's not like doing spacewalks, but at least you'll pay less for an amazing experience. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION]

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World's largest plane is ready for takeoff

The largest aircraft ever built is now edging closer to completion, the a privately owned company launch spacecraft's Paul Allen, has invited journalists to get first look at 'Stratolaunch'.

The world's biggest plane is set to take off early next year in its first ever test flight. The aircraft, named the Stratolaunch Carrier, is currently under construction at Mojave Air and Spaceport in California, and will eventually have a a wingspan of 385 feet (117 m). (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1crcNI)

With the giant wingspan of 117 m and six engines, the aircraft is taking a new approach in this private space race, with the launch of satellites and spacecraft into orbit from a height. The aircraft will be bigger than the Howard Hughes' H-4 Hercules made in 1947, and an Antonov An-225 Soviet era cargo plane as the current world's largest aircraft.

The idea is for the Stratolaunch Carrier is to act as a giant air pad in the sky, allowing payloads to reach space faster and at a lower cost than existing technologies. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1crcNI)

Stratolaunch Systems is part of Vulcan Aerospace company owned by Paul Allen, cofounder of Microsoft. The company's vision is different from Elon Musk's SpaceX, Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin, and Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic.

Reporters got their first look at the Stratolaunch plane, which is currently being constructed at a hanger in the US. The private behind the venture say construction of the plane is 76 per cent complete. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1crcNI)

Stratolaunch Systems is the ability to position the giant plane so that the satellite can be directly delivered to a very precise orbit and do it quickly, without problems scheduling a variety of launch and weather related delays, as explained by Chuck Beames, whose oversees the space business of Paul Allen as quoted of the Daily Mail on Monday, June 20, 2016.

The Stratolaunch carrier aircraft's 385 feet (117 m) wingspan compares to 320 feet for H-4 Hercules and 225 feet for Boeing 747-8. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1crcNI)

Instead as satellites, the Stratolaunch aircraft could launch Dream Chaser spacecraft. It can act as a mini-shuttle to achieve the goal of low-Earth orbit and carry back the astronauts or cargo to the runway in 24 hours.

Stratolaunch is a twin bodied aircraft that combines engine, landing gear, avionics and other parts of a Boeing 747 jet couples with the frame, wing and skin are made of lightweight composite. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DAILY MAIL]

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