Another would-be flying car has hit the market, this one a three-wheeler with an unusual folding-wing concept that solves the problem of what to do with the wings in driving mode but presents a potential problem of how to handle crosswind landings.
Switchblade Flying Car Makes Oshkosh Debut
Key Takeaways:
- The Switchblade is a new three-wheeled "flying car" (Experimental kitplane) from Samson Motors, featuring a unique folding-wing design that stows the wings underneath the vehicle.
- This innovative wing design, while solving storage, presents a potential issue for crosswind landings due to scant ground clearance and a predicted maximum allowable crosswind component of 15 knots.
- Powered by a 190 hp turbocharged V4 engine, the two-seater claims top speeds of 165 knots in the air and 160 mph on the ground, with a targeted price of $140,000.
- Scheduled for first flight by year-end and sales late next year, it falls under motorcycle regulations, allowing it to forgo some safety gear required for cars.
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