LuftCar LLC, in partnership with eFrancisco Motor Corporation (eFMC), is set to introduce a groundbreaking combination electric minivan and eVTOL in the Philippines. The innovative vehicle, named the Luft Pinoy, distinguishes itself from other flying car concepts by being designed as both an electric minivan and an electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle, all while being powered by hydrogen for a more sustainable operation.
Unlike traditional flying car designs that incorporate wings into the chassis, the Luft Pinoy features a unique two-part system that allows the minivan to seamlessly connect with the eVTOL segment. This design makes it ideal for island-hopping around the Philippines, given the country’s archipelagic geography comprising over 7,100 islands.
eFMC oversees the chassis design of the minivan, while Luft takes charge of the overall development. The first prototype of the Luft Pinoy is expected to be completed by the end of 2024, with initial applications targeted towards defense and cargo transportation. The eVTOL’s design is specifically tailored to meet the transportation needs of the Philippines, making it a practical solution for inter-island travel.
The versatility of the Luft Pinoy allows it to navigate the islands on land and then seamlessly transition to air travel by docking with the eVTOL portion. While flying cars represent a growing trend in technological innovation, there are still regulatory challenges and restrictions that need to be addressed before they become a viable mode of public transportation.
Overall, the collaboration between LuftCar LLC and eFrancisco Motor Corporation marks a significant step forward in the development of eco-friendly and efficient transportation solutions tailored for the unique geographical challenges of the Philippines.