Chinese automaker Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) has showcased its innovative
flying car concept, GOVE, which can seamlessly transition between road and air travel.
With a growing interest in futuristic transportation options, GAC joins the race to
develop flying cars, demonstrating its commitment to research and development in the
industry.
Combining a one-seater passenger drone equipped with six sets of rotor blades and a
four-wheeled chassis, GOVE offers a unique solution for both road and air mobility. The
vehicle’s drone and chassis separate before flight, allowing it to take to the skies. GAC
presented a successful demonstration of GOVE’s flight capabilities, highlighting its
potential to revolutionise the way humans travel.
GAC On-the-Go Vertical EV (GOVE)
The acronym “GOVE” represents GAC’s vision of an on-the-go, vertical-flight electric
vehicle. While specific details regarding pricing and production timelines remain
undisclosed, GAC’s executive noted that commercialisation of the flying car may require
considerable time. The absence of regulations for passenger use of drones in China
presents an additional challenge to the development of this groundbreaking technology.
GAC’s strategic anticipation of demand for flying cars is particularly relevant in southern
China, where major cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Macau are
clustered close to the sea and an extensive river delta. By introducing GOVE, GAC aims
to address the potential transportation needs in this region and beyond.
From Flight and Beyond
Beyond flying cars, GAC also seeks to accelerate technological advancements within
China’s auto market. Alongside GOVE, the company unveiled a hybrid vehicle that
combines a hydrogen engine with electric power. GAC is also actively researching
ammonia-based engines. By pursuing cutting-edge technologies, GAC aims to stay
competitive in an increasingly challenging industry.
According to Roland Berger, a German consultancy firm, the Asia-Pacific region is
expected to witness advanced air mobility services by 2030. The report predicts a
global usage of 100,000 flying cars by 2050, serving as air cabs, airport shuttles, and
intercity airlines. The revenue generated from air mobility services in the region is
projected to reach USD 36.9 billion by 2050.
Challenges in Regulation
Despite the immense growth potential, self-driving flying cars face numerous
challenges. The absence of regulations for flying cars in China calls for collaborative
efforts. Establishing policies for air mobility services will ensure safety as innovation
moves forward. Furthermore, unmanned flying requires enhanced safety measures and
longer-distance detection capabilities, posing significant hurdles for developers.
With GOVE’s maiden flight successfully completed, GAC has taken a significant step
towards realising its futuristic vision. GAC’s detachable Electric Vertical Take-Off and
Landing vehicle (eVTOL) design show their commitment to innovation and cutting-edge
mindset.
eVTOL, combined with GAC’s autonomous ADiGO-Pilot system and a dual backup multi-
rotor flight system, may very well set the tone for new technologies to come.
While the road to commercialisation may be long and complex, GAC remains confident
in overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term growth. As the world envisions a
future where vertical takeoffs from roadways are possible, GAC’s GOVE provides a
glimpse into the exciting possibilities of holistic, all-electric mobility.
