Aridge, led by CFO and Vice President Michael Du, plans to establish a production or assembly facility for a modular flying car and its mother ship in the UAE. This initiative aims to introduce their unique vehicle to the region.
“Our goal is to achieve a global presence and ensure our product is enjoyed by consumers worldwide,” Du shared with Khaleej Times. “Once we reach a substantial volume and local demand rises, it becomes logical to implement local manufacturing, servicing, or operational processes.”
Du spoke during the first international public flight demonstration of the Land Aircraft Carrier, Aridge’s modular flying car system.
Stay informed with the latest updates. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
The carrier combines a ground mother ship vehicle with a detachable, foldable two-seater Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft, conveniently stored in its trunk. This innovative vehicle has entered mass production, with 600 orders already placed in the region. In the UAE, Aridge has partnered with Ali and Sons group to market the vehicle.
Adopting Advanced Technology
Formerly Xpeng Aeroht, Aridge is a leading flying car company in Asia. Du explained why the region was chosen as its first international market: “GCC countries excel in adopting new technology,” he noted. “Additionally, the stunning coastline, diverse sceneries, and geographical features offer numerous potential use cases. This region also boasts a large market with a substantial consumer base.”
After Sunday’s demonstration, Du anticipated more orders from tech-savvy early adopters. “As awareness grows and people witness its capabilities, we expect increased interest and orders. Our initial customers will likely be technology enthusiasts, similar to early adopters of foldable phones, electric vehicles, and drones.”
Du mentioned that the vehicle currently lacks a set price point, as it is designed for personal use in the GCC.
The Aircraft
The eVTOL of the Land Aircraft Carrier can soar up to 2,000 meters, but public use will have restrictions. “In China, we’re limiting it to 120 meters, following local regulations,” Du stated.
The company collaborates with local regulators, including the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), to ensure a “future official certification process” and guarantee “safety when embracing new technologies.”
The air module can reach speeds of 72 km/h, though local use will limit its speed. Switching from driving to flying mode takes just four minutes. “Users can drive anywhere across the country to launch, adhering to local rules,” said Du. “Upon arrival, automatic vehicle separation occurs in under four minutes.”
The rotor deploys or folds with a single click, and high-precision technology ensures alignment between the mother ship and eVTOL. Within four minutes, the air module, weighing over 700 kg, integrates seamlessly into the six-wheel ground vehicle, which serves as both transport and energy platform, recharging the eVTOL.
Du emphasized the company’s commitment to creating a product that addresses “everyday utilization challenges from start to finish.”
