Introducing TF-X: Terrafugia's Vision for the Future of Personal Transportation Chloe Albanesius - PCMag.com
go to original May 13, 2013

Introducing TF-X: Terrafugia's Vision for the Future of Personal Transportation (TerrafugiaInc)

Terrafugia last week unveiled plans for a plug-in hybrid version of its flying car, or "street-legal airplane."

The four-seat, vertical takeoff and landing plug-in hybrid is known as the TF-X. It is still in the planning stages, but concept images show a vehicle that looks like a sedan with wings. Avoid traffic jams by escaping to the sky; one image shows the TF-X flying high over farmland.

In a video demo of the TF-X (above), Terrafugia said owners need only "tell it where you want to go; it flies for you." No runway is needed; the device operates much like a helicopter thanks to twin 600 hp electric motor pods, which have 16 separate motors per pod. "A megawatt of power lifts you," according to Terrafugia.

The motor pods fold forward during flight, teaming up with a 300 hp engine, which recharges the batteries. The propellers then fold for cruise, and the engine takes over, reaching speeds of 200 mph. Terrafugia promised a range of 500 miles. The TF-X will land for you, though passengers can override the system if a landing is unsafe.

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