Xpeng AeroHT’s Land Aircraft Carrier: The Future of Hybrid Travel Arrives
Daily commutes might soon involve choosing between a car and a flying machine. However, Xpeng AeroHT suggests a different approach with its “Land Aircraft Carrier” (LAC), a six-wheeled electric van capable of deploying an eVTOL, ushering in a new era of hybrid land-air travel.
This innovative concept has quickly evolved from a futuristic idea to a tangible reality, with full-scale demonstrations and test flights already completed. The LAC, a dual-mode transporter, first appeared as a concept in October 2023. It has been advancing rapidly, particularly considering the speed of advancements in China’s “low altitude economy.”
In November, Xpeng AeroHT showcased the LAC during the China Airshow in Zhuhai. The event featured a public demonstration where the two-person eVTOL emerged from the carrier van, deployed its wings, and took flight. This demonstration occurred just over a year after the LAC was introduced as a concept.
The LAC made its North American debut at CES this month.
Xpeng AeroHT is at the forefront of aviation innovation, with designs like its sharp-bodied X2 eVTOL and multi-rotor hypercar. The company describes the LAC’s van as the first passenger car ever built that can store an aircraft, a design unlike any other currently available. The van features a six-wheel configuration to distribute the eVTOL’s weight, and its 18-foot (5.5-m) length is shorter than a typical Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 144. Its 6.6-foot (2-m) height allows it to enter underground parking.
The LAC van, playfully nicknamed the “mothership,” has an all-wheel-drive system, adjustable air suspension, and rear-wheel steering, enabling it to navigate varied terrains. At the touch of a button, the dual rear doors and hatch open to release the eVTOL. The suspension drops, allowing the van to move forward, leaving the aircraft ready for takeoff.
Xpeng AeroHT plans a ground range of 620 miles (1,000 km, CLTC) using a range-extended hybrid powertrain. The van’s onboard battery and fuel tank are estimated to provide power for up to six full flights of the eVTOL, which charges while docked within the van. The eVTOL, also known as the “air module,” has six rotors that fold out for flight. It will offer both manual and autonomous flight capabilities, with a simple push-button launch system.
The eVTOL has a carbon fiber construction and a 270-degree polycarbonate cockpit for optimal views. Its single-lever controls are designed for intuitive operation. The air module is also equipped with several safety systems including backups for critical functions. This design opens up exciting possibilities for travel, from scenic drives followed by aerial tours to heli-skiing trips. In the future, this combination van/eVTOL could also be used with a camper interior for camping trips.
Xpeng AeroHT is planning to open its flying car manufacturing facility in Q3 2025, aiming to be the world’s first mass production plant. This facility will manufacture the flying car component of LAC, with an intended capacity of 10,000 units per year. Preorders are expected soon, with the first deliveries of the LAC planned for 2026. Although the price is not listed on the website, some recent reports estimate the cost to be around US$280,000.
