On 16/9, images and information surfaced on Chinese social media platforms showing two Xpeng AeroHT electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles in flight, followed by at least one catching fire on the ground.

The eVTOL model in the video is part of Xpeng's Land Aircraft Carrier (LAC) flying car module, introduced in 2024. The LAC is a three-axle vehicle with an attached helicopter. The vehicle measures 5,500 mm long, 2,000 mm wide, and 2,000 mm high.

It uses an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrain with a gasoline engine. A front-mounted internal combustion engine generates electricity for the electric motor and battery pack. The vehicle has a range of 1,000 km. The battery supports fast charging from 30% to 80% in just 18 minutes.

The car-copter module. Photo: Xpeng

During its first test flight in November of the same year, the LAC received over 2,000 orders. In December of the same year, the flying car was spotted undergoing road tests, with the head of Xpeng AeroHT among the participants.

According to the company, mass production and delivery of the car-copter module will begin in 2026. The projected output is about 10,000 vehicles per year. The LAC is priced at approximately 280,000 USD.

The accident occurred during the Changchun Airshow. An Xpeng representative stated that the two eVTOLs involved in the drill collided due to an insufficient safe distance. One landed normally, while the other was damaged and caught fire during landing. All personnel at the scene were safe. The specific cause is under further investigation.

My Anh (CarNewsChina, Sina)