Samson Sky, producers of the Switchblade Flying Car, which had its first flight in November 2023, has chosen Beyond Motors as the primary electric motor supplier for when the Switchblade goes into production.
Beyond’s e-motors are “a perfect fit for our unique flying car hybrid-electric system,” said Sam Bousfield, CEO of Samson Sky and the designer of the Switchblade.
Beyond is a Slovenian company and has been providing motors for the aviation, automotive, and racing industries for years.
Company officials note that by using its exclusive hybrid-electric Skybrid system, it has been able to create a “flying sports car” that is high performance both on the ground and in the air.
The gas engine powers generators that flow power directly to the motors at the wheels for the ground or the propeller motors for flight. This system was chosen to allow an easy upgrade to full electric flight as soon as battery technology becomes viable for this use, company officials noted.
According to the company, the Switchblade has an estimated 100+ mph ground speed (0-60 mph in just over 5 seconds), and 160 mph cruise speed in the air. It can fly up to 500 miles on one tank of premium automotive gas.
According to the company, there are more than 2,400 reservation holders from over 50 countries and all 50 U.S. states.
The Switchblade is an Experimental category aircraft, which means that the FAA requires an owner build 51% of the vehicle. All Switchblade owners will spend one week at the Samson Builder Assist Center, building 51% of their Switchblade. Following this, Samson will complete their vehicle.
For more information: SamsonSky.com
They are doing a redesign from their original concept. This one will take years before they’re ready.
My first glance at this aerocar convinced me that this is what an aerocar should look like.
And the stats back the performance on the ground and in the air.
Can I order a blue one?
Ann Pellegreno