Electric air taxis have seen an increase in popularity due to technological advances, including battery technology and autonomous programming.
Larry Page is the CEO of Google’s parent company Alphabet. He has invested millions in aviation start-ups Zee Aero, and Kitty Hawk. Both are working to develop all-electric flying taxis.
Kitty Hawk has been filing more than 12 aircraft registrations to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Page, who co-founded Google with Sergey Brin back in 1998, has personally invested $100 million (£70 million) into the two companies, which have yet to publicly acknowledge or demonstrate their technology.
AirSpaceX’s latest prototype, Mobi-One was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in January 2018. The electric plane, like its nearest rivals in the market for transporting two- to four people and can be vertically taken off and landed.
Airbus is also hard at work on an all-electric, vertical-take-off-and-landing craft, with its latest Project Vahana prototype, branded Alpha One, successfully completing its maiden test flight in February 2018.
After reaching a height (16 feet, five metres), the self-piloted helicopter returned to the ground. It took just 53 seconds to complete the test flight.
Airbus has previously released a video concept demonstrating its vision of Project Vahana.
It shows an aeroplane that can fly itself, with one passenger. A canopy is used to cover the head and visors of motorcycle helmets.
The Airbus Project vahana prototype (named Alpha One) successfully flew its maiden flight in February 2018. After reaching a height 16ft (five metres), the self-piloted helicopter returned to the ground. The test flight took 53 seconds.
AirSpaceX, another company that aims to transport commuters into the air is also a possibility.
Detroit-based startup has committed to deploying 2,500 aircraft in America’s 50 biggest cities by 2026.
AirSpaceX’s latest prototype, Mobi-One was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in early 2018.
Similar to its close rivals, this electric aircraft can carry up to four passengers. It is also capable of vertical takeoff and landing.
AirSpaceX even offers broadband internet connectivity so that you can access your Facebook News Feed while you are flying to work.
AirSpaceX states that in addition to passenger and cargo service, the craft can also serve as a medical and casualty evacuation vessel, and for tactical Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance.
Uber even works hard to get its ride-hailing platform online.
Dubbed Uber Elevate, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi tentatively discussed the company’s plans during a technology conference in January 2018.
‘I think it’s going to happen within the next 10 years,’ he said.