Hydrogen-Powered Flying Taxi Covers 561 Miles: US Launch Date Revealed

In the realm of science fiction, flying cars have often been a staple, leading many to wonder when they would become a reality. Now, with the successful invention and testing of flying taxis, this vision appears closer to becoming a part of our everyday lives.

A hydrogen-powered flying taxi recently set a record by covering 561 miles (902 km) in a flight over California. This groundbreaking vehicle, developed by Joby Aviation, emits only water vapor, making it an environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

Joby Aviation’s founder and CEO, JoeBen Bevirt, highlighted the potential of this innovation, stating, “Imagine flying from San Francisco to San Diego, Boston to Baltimore, or Nashville to New Orleans without needing to go to an airport, and with no emissions except water. That future is now closer than ever.”

Details of the Flying Taxi
Partly funded by the US military, this air taxi features six propellers, enabling vertical takeoff and landing similar to a helicopter. Once airborne, the propellers shift from a vertical to a horizontal orientation, allowing the taxi to fly like a conventional fixed-wing aircraft.

The taxi can accommodate four passengers and achieve speeds of up to 200 miles per hour (322 km/h), making it suitable for urban air mobility. While not the first aircraft of its kind, this particular model is unique due to its hydrogen-powered propellers.

This hydrogen-powered vehicle is a modified version of Joby’s original all-electric aircraft, which has already logged 25,000 miles (40,000 km) of test flights. Joby opted for a hydrogen-electric power system over traditional electric systems or fossil fuels to enable cleaner, longer flights.

The craft’s batteries have been replaced with a fuel cell that holds nearly 40 kg (88 lbs) of liquid hydrogen. This hydrogen is converted into heat, electricity, and water vapor during flight. After completing a 523-mile journey, the company reported that 10 percent of the fuel still remained, showcasing the efficiency of this innovative power system.