The Flying Dutch Car!

A Dutch entrepreneur, working with a design engineering firm, has developed a three-wheeled vehicle that travels both on the ground and in the air, via a set of unfolding helicopter blades. The PALV (Personal Air and Land Vehicle), powered by a rotary engine, has a top ground speed of 125 mph (120 mph in the air) and can get between 60 and 70 miles per gallon of conventional gasoline. It can take off at close range, and can land vertically.

On the ground, the slimline, aerodynamic 3-wheel vehicle is as comfortable as a luxury car, yet has the agility of a motorbike, thanks to its patented cutting-edge 'tilting' system. The single rotor and propeller are folded away until the PALV is ready to fly. Once airborne, the PALV flies under the 4,000 feet (1,500 meters) floor of commercial air space.

Note from Technophile: Its straightforward autogyro flying technology means that the PALV is economically and technically feasible in comparison to other forms of air travel. Like a helicopter, it has a Very Short Take Off and Vertical Landing (VSTOVL) capability making it possible to land practically anywhere. It can be driven to the nearest airfield or helipad and, because it flies below 4,000 feet, can take off without filing a flight plan. The autogyro technology means that it can be steered and landed safely even if the engine fails as it descends vertically rather than nose-diving. Lift is generated by the forward speed produced by the foldable push propeller on the back. What makes the PALV attractive is the convenience of fully integrated door to door transportation. Providing smooth transition from road to air without having to change vehicle. The versatility to allow the driver to change their mind!

Source: [Spark Design]