From The Jetsons to Harry Potter , flying cars are a staple feature in many science fiction films and TV programmes.
But flying vehicles are slowly but surely becoming a reality, with one being tested over Germany this week.
Lilium, a tech startup based in Munich, has released new footage of its flying taxi taking to the skies over Germany.
The vehicle, called the Lilium Jet, is the world’s first five-seater, all-electric, vertical take-off and landing jet.
It’s powered by 36 all-electric jet engines, meaning it has zero operating emissions, and requires less than 10% of its maximum 2,000 horespower during horizontal flight.
(Image: Lilium)
(Image: Lilium)
Lilium claims that the aircraft can fly at speeds of over 60 miles/hour, and will be able to complete journeys of up to 186 miles on a single charge.
While this isn’t the flying taxi’s maiden voyage, this is the first time that the aircraft has transitioned from vertical flight to level flight – a manoeuvre consider to be one of aerospace’s greatest challenges.
The test flight comes shortly after Lilium completed its first dedicated manufacturing facility in Munich.
(Image: Lilium)
(Image: Lilium)
Lilium hopes that this new facility will help it achieve its goal of offering commercial flying taxi services by 2025.
Daniel Wiegand, co-founder and CEO, said: “It’s been thrilling to watch the Lilium Jet progress so rapidly and to see our first flying taxi manufacturing facility.
“We are taking tangible and concrete steps towards making our vision of regional air mobility a reality and we’re doing it on time.
“We believe that regional air mobility has the potential to be a remarkable force for good in society and we can’t wait for what comes next.”