GAC Group, a prominent player in the automotive industry, has entered the realm of electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOL) with its latest creation. During a recent Tech Day event, GAC introduced the world to “Gove,” an eVTOL aircraft that has successfully completed its inaugural flight. The name Gove is a clever amalgamation of the initials of GAC, On the Go, Vertical, and EV, signifying its role as a potential component of GAC’s integrated mobility solutions in the future.
Gove boasts a unique design that allows for the separation of its vehicle and chassis. When operating on land, the two components seamlessly merge together, but when it takes to the skies, they separate, enabling the eVTOL’s flight capabilities. GAC has equipped Gove with the ADiGO-Pilot autonomous piloting system, enhancing its navigational capabilities. Additionally, the aircraft is equipped with a dual backup multi-rotor flight system, ensuring enhanced safety measures during flight.
See also: ZeroAvia Makes History with Maiden Flight of World’s Largest Hydrogen-Electric Powered Aircraft
In a bid to foster technological advancements in flight, GAC is collaborating with aerospace research institutes to establish a cooperative ecosystem. This alliance aims to drive the development of flight technology and create a secure and reliable air travel corridor. Wu Jian, the president of GAC’s research institute, expressed the company’s commitment to these endeavors.
The successful demonstration of the Gove flying car marks only the beginning of GAC’s ambitions in the realm of transportation solutions. Wu Jian emphasized that GAC plans to further expand its travel offerings by partnering with Ruqi Mobility and Robotaxi. This collective effort seeks to shape the future of GAC’s comprehensive travel solutions.
See also: GAC Group invests 312 million euros to setting up electric drive subsidiary
It is worth noting that Gove’s design bears striking similarities to an eVTOL prototype showcased by another Chinese team toward the end of last year. The Beijing Institute of Technology had announced the unveiling of a two-seat engineering prototype, which garnered the distinction of being the world’s first split-design manned flying car. Comprised of three distinct modules—an autonomous vertical takeoff and landing vehicle, an intelligent control cockpit, and an autopilot chassis—the vehicle seamlessly transitions between land-based driving and airborne flight modes.
As the race for aerial mobility intensifies, GAC Group’s foray into the eVTOL sector with the Gove represents a significant milestone. With its successful maiden flight and commitment to collaborative innovation, GAC is poised to shape the future of urban transportation and contribute to the realization of a new era of air mobility.
