XPeng’s Land Carrier Is the World’s First Modular Flying Car, Now Launched
In a move that could redefine mobility, XPeng Motors, one of China’s leading electric vehicle manufacturers, has unveiled the world’s first mass-produced modular flying car, officially named the “Land Carrier.”
Developed by XPeng’s subsidiary Aridge, the Land Carrier combines the practicality of a road vehicle with the freedom of flight. It’s designed to seamlessly switch between driving and flying modes — a milestone that pushes the boundary between automotive and aviation engineering.
XPeng says the new vehicle represents more than just innovation; it signals the beginning of an era where daily commutes could take to the skies.
Dual-Module Design: Land and Air Capabilities in One Vehicle
The XPeng Land Carrier features a dual-module design that combines a land vehicle with a detachable aerial module.
The Land Module
The land module, also called the “mother vehicle”, boasts a six-wheel, all-wheel-drive system that ensures maximum traction and off-road performance.
- Dimensions: 5.5 meters long, 2 meters wide, and 2 meters high (similar to a large SUV).
- Usability: It fits into standard parking spaces and can be driven with a regular driver’s license, making it practical for daily use.
The Aerial Module
The aerial module is where things become truly futuristic. The vehicle is equipped with:
- Six rotors and an electric propulsion system
- A carbon-fiber fuselage for strength and lightness
- A 270-degree panoramic cockpit for wide visibility
- Manual and autonomous flight modes, allowing it to navigate predefined routes automatically
XPeng’s Advanced Manufacturing Hub in Guangzhou
XPeng has built a large 120,000-square-meter facility in Guangzhou, China, specifically for manufacturing the Land Carrier. The complex includes five specialized workshops, focusing on:
- Composites
- Propulsion
- Assembly
- Painting
- Final Integration
According to the company, the facility produces 300 tons of carbon-fiber parts annually, ensuring lightweight strength and durability for the flying car. Each vehicle will undergo rigorous safety and airworthiness testing before delivery.
Mass Production and Testing Plans for 2025
XPeng’s Land Carrier could mark the start of a new era in transportation where vehicles drive on roads and take to the skies when needed. The company plans to begin mass production next year, following extensive testing in 2025.
With China heavily investing in the low-altitude economy and the urban air mobility (UAM) sector, XPeng’s new venture positions it ahead of global competitors such as Joby Aviation, Lilium, and Hyundai’s Supernal.
However, analysts note that regulatory hurdles, safety certifications, and infrastructure development will be crucial for bringing flying cars into everyday use.
Flying Cars Becoming Reality: From Road to Sky Travel
While it may take time before we see the Land Carrier in cities like Karachi or Lahore, this announcement shows how quickly the lines between cars and aircraft are blurring.
Thanks to XPeng’s innovation, the dream of owning a vehicle that can drive on roads and fly over traffic is no longer science fiction; it’s becoming a reality.