Terrafugia Transition, Image/Terrafugia
Imagine a future where a car is also a plane. Coming in 2019, the Terrafugia Transition, a two-seat auto and aircraft, will include updated interior, safety systems, motor, and flight instrumentation in the next test vehicles. This combination of innovation and testing was recently defined at Terrafugia,
“we are at the critical point where we can implement the best design features based on years of flight and drive testing. This will improve function, safety and aesthetics for the optimal flying and driving experience.”
The Terrafugia Transition is described as “personal transportation at your convenience.” Flight mode can be accomplished in less than a minute and with just the push of a button. Remarkably, the vehicle can be stored in your home garage and uses automotive gas. Driving/flying a Terrafugia Transition requires a driver’s license and sport pilot certificate.
The Transition can reach highway speeds on the ground and travel 400 miles with top speeds up to 100 mph while flying. Other significant features include maximum load of 500 lbs, service ceiling 9000 ft+, fuel capacity, 20 gallons +, fuel burn, 5 gallons/hr, Rotax 912iS 100HP 4 Cylinder Fuel Injected 2,000hr TBO engine, Hybrid-electric powered motors for driving mode and includes a foldable wingspan for ground driving.
The Transition includes safety features for added peace of mind including an airframe parachute, airbag, crumple zone, advanced Dynon Skyview avionics, seatbelts with automatic retractors, structurally rigid cabin engineered to meet auto safety standards and three rearview cameras for when in drive mode.
