Car Crash Happens in Mid-Air
Two flying cars collided mid-air during a rehearsal for an airshow in Changchun, China, sparking a dramatic crash and reigniting concerns over the safety of next-generation aerial vehicles. The electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, developed by Xpeng Aeroht—a subsidiary of electric vehicle maker Xpeng—were performing complex maneuvers in close formation when the accident occurred, according to company officials.
One of the aircraft crashed to the ground and caught fire, while videos shared online and in Chinese media showed thick smoke and emergency crews responding swiftly. One pilot sustained only minor injuries, and Xpeng Aeroht confirmed that all personnel are safe. The company attributed the crash to “insufficient spacing” between the vehicles and stated that an investigation is underway.
The incident comes as China bets heavily on its emerging “low-altitude economy,” which includes innovations like flying taxis and drone deliveries operating below 3,000 meters. The sector, highlighted in last year’s government work report, is projected to reach a value of $206 billion by 2025 and more than double by 2035.
Xpeng Aeroht, which calls itself Asia’s largest flying car company, is one of several firms racing to lead in this space. The company has already received 3,000 orders for its $300,000 vehicles, according to the BBC, although full-scale deployment awaits regulatory approval and supporting infrastructure.
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