Terrafugia Transition makes debut

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http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/art...ick-switch.html

'Need a lift?': Debut flight of first flying car which can go from road to sky at the flick of a switch

By Eddie Wrenn

2009/03/19 03:51

Since man first found himself trapped in traffic jams, we have dreamed of finding a way to leave the gridlock behind.

Well dream no longer, for the world's 'first flying car' has made its debut flight, soaring over the skies of the U.S.A. before touching down and - at the touch of a button - folds its wings away and hits the highway.

The Terrafugia Transition can cruise at 115mph before driving 'at highway speeds' on the roads - and it can be safely stored in the garage.

Carl Dietrich, creator of the Terrafugia, said: 'This breakthrough changes the world of personal mobility - it’s what aviation enthusiasts have been striving for since 1918.'

The company claims its flying vehicle can soar 400 miles through the air on a single tank of gas.

Meanwhile refueling involves no more than driving into the nearest forecourt and filling up with unleaded petrol.

Other flying cars have been demonstrated before, but this is the first proven model with foldable wings which allows it to seamlessly transfer from air to road.

However there's a few barriers to entry - the car/plane will cost about £139,000 at launch, although car enthusiasts may note this is no more than a top-end Bentley.

Drivers will also need to provide full driver's or pilot's license if they get pulled over mid-flight.

As a light aircraft, it will struggle to fly in poor weather, bad visibility or restricted airspace, but it does have the added advantage of continuing the journey by road if conditions turn for the worse.

Company test pilot Phil Meteer - a former air force colonel - piloted the maiden flight earlier this month.

He told AVWeb: 'The first flight was remarkably unremarkable.

'I've flown several thousand hours in everything from Piper Cubs to F-16s, and the Transition flew like a really nice airplane.'

The Transition is classed as a light aircraft, fitting into the U.S.'s 'light sport' category and making it easier to gain a licence.

The company is still waiting for certification from the National Highways and Transportation Safety Administration.

However Transition are 'confident' the vehicle will soon be taking to the roads and skies.