Wed, May 08, 2013
Company Says TF-X 'Would Provide The World With A New Dimension Of Personal Freedom'
As it continues to work through the process of having its Transition street-legal airplane approved by both the FAA and highway safety officials, Terrafugia is conducting feasibility studies for its next project: a four-seat, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) plug-in hybrid-electric flying car, the TF-X.
In a news release, Terrafugia says the aircraft builds on its experience with the Transition program. Incorporating the state-of-the-art in intelligent systems, fly by wire controls, and currently available technology, the TF-X will further increase the level of safety, simplicity, and convenience of personal aviation.
“This is the right time for us to begin thinking about the future of the company beyond Transition development,” says Terrafugia CEO/CTO Carl Dietrich, “We are passionate about continuing to lead the creation of a flying car industry and are dedicating resources to lay the foundations for our vision of personal transportation.” Terrafugia’s design team is excited to be looking ahead to TF-X development activities as the Transition program shifts from research and development to certification, production, and customer support activities. The Transition serves as a Proof of Process for TF-X development and commercialization through the many technical, regulatory, and usage challenges it has overcome.
By directly addressing congestion and other transportation challenges currently being faced internationally, widespread adoption of vehicles like the Transition and TF-X could result in significant economic benefits and personal time savings. Preliminary conversations with the FAA about the TF-X concept have demonstrated their willingness to consider innovative technologies and regulatory solutions that are in the public interest and enhance the level of safety of personal aviation. Terrafugia is excited to be nearing production of the Transition and continuing to push the envelope of personal transportation. Dietrich adds, “Terrafugia is about increasing the level of safety, simplicity, and convenience of aviation. TF-X is an opportunity to provide the world with a new dimension of personal freedom.”
Terrafugia says its mission is to build practical flying cars.
(Terrafugia TF-X image from YouTube video)
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