Last October, Xpeng AeroHT unveiled the Land Aircraft Carrier concept, which combines features of a futuristic van and a pickup truck. The vehicle has six wheels and can carry a small electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. A prototype of this vehicle, dubbed the land-based aircraft carrier, was recently spotted in China near the Xpeng factory. Chinese media reports that the company plans to start selling this model as early as this year, with deliveries to begin in 2025.
The photos show that much of the concept's design is likely to remain unchanged. The car retains the Land Aircraft Carrier shape and has similar proportions. The front end is reminiscent of the X9 minivan with short overhangs and a sharp roof line. From some angles, it seems that Xpeng AeroHT designers took inspiration from the Tesla Cybertruck, which is especially noticeable in the angular visor of the truck.
While the prototype bears a resemblance to the concept, it's unlikely that it will go on sale with the eVTOL in the luggage compartment. The eVTOL industry is still at an early stage of development and obtaining authorisation from the relevant authorities for such an aircraft would be a lengthy process. Conversely, obtaining authorisation for a six-wheeled pickup truck/van to be used on public roads is likely to be quicker.
The specifications of the Land Aircraft Carrier are not yet known. All that is clear is that it will be all-electric and will likely borrow the battery pack and motors from existing models.
Source: PCAuto
