In the capital of Japan, Tokyo, the startup SkyDrive has demonstrated its "flying car" for the first time. This was reported by the Kazinform agency, citing Kyodo.
The flight demonstration was organized in collaboration with Mitsubishi Estate and Kanematsu.
The remotely piloted drone was in the air for about three and a half minutes and covered approximately 150 meters over the waters of Tokyo Bay.
The electric model SD-05, equipped with twelve rotors, is designed to carry three passengers and can fly distances of 15 to 40 kilometers without recharging.
The developers emphasize that due to its compact size and light weight, this aircraft can land in places where traditional helicopters and other aircraft cannot, as they require larger areas.
Additionally, the company showcased a terminal for flight management and passenger services, which includes check-in and control procedures, as well as automatic registration using facial recognition technology. Demonstration flights and terminal operations will continue until Saturday.
Experts suggest that this type of transport could reduce the burden on roads and public transport. Previously, this aircraft was presented at an international exhibition in Osaka. A commercial launch of the service in some regions of Japan is expected in 2028.
According to the company's head, Tomohiro Fukuzawa, after 2030, the cost of a trip on a "flying car" could be about twice the taxi fare, or even lower. He noted that due to the speed, which exceeds that of taxis by four to five times, such a price difference would be justified by time savings.
