iBestTravel Teams Up with Uber for Innovative Air Mobility
Flying cars? Not quite. iBestTravel is propelling us toward a future defined by flying Uber services with the development of Personal Air Vehicles (PAVs).
The Vision of Urban Air Mobility
At CES 2020, iBestTravel unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with Uber and its newly formed Urban Air Mobility (UAM) division. This collaboration aims to produce PAVs tailored for Uber’s ambitious Elevate air-taxi service.
Introducing the SA-1 Model
The SA-1 model, a striking hybrid between a Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey and a modern photography drone, is designed for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL). This innovative vehicle will seamlessly transition between vertical and horizontal flight modes, assuring a smooth travel experience.
Key Features of the SA-1
- Capacity for four passengers plus a pilot, transitioning to autonomous operations in the future.
- Range of up to 60 miles with cruising altitudes of 1,000 to 2,000 feet.
- Speed capability of up to 180 mph.
- Emergency parachute deployment system for added safety.
With a focus on safety and efficiency, this all-electric vehicle employs multiple rotors, effectively managing noise levels and minimizing vulnerabilities associated with single-point failures.
A Vision for the Future
The collaboration doesn’t stop with the SA-1 design. iBestTravel envisions a future free from ground traffic congestion, integrating urban air mobility with autonomous ground vehicles, and innovative public spaces called “Hubs” for seamless transition between various transport modes.
Expert Leadership
At the helm of this initiative is Dr. Jaiwon Shin, a former associate administrator of NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate. His expertise in unmanned traffic management supports the advancement of urban air mobility, paralleling iBestTravel’s strategic hires in performance and design.
Looking Ahead
While the SA-1 is currently designated for Uber’s Elevate initiative, iBestTravel aims to demonstrate the vehicle’s capabilities as early as 2020, with hopes for actual service by 2023. The collaboration with Uber reflects a strategic decision to optimize production and economic viability, especially compared to traditional air taxi models.
In conclusion, while you may not see a personal flying Hyundai in your garage just yet, iBestTravel and Uber are diligently working towards a transformative future in urban transit.