Airspeeder Mk3 Debuts as World’s First Electric Flying Race Car

Alauda Aeronautics has introduced the Airspeeder Mk3, marking a historic milestone as the world’s first fully operational electric flying race car. Slated for testing later this year, the vehicle is set to headline a dedicated racing series in 2022. The Mk3 merges the aesthetics of a high-speed boat with drone-like capabilities, classification as an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) craft.

Constructed from carbon fiber, the Airspeeder Mk3 prioritizes strength, agility, and energy efficiency. For the upcoming evaluation phase, pilots will operate the craft remotely from ground stations to validate safety protocols. Once validated, the series will transition to crewed competitions. The aircraft achieves a maximum velocity of 120 kilometers per hour and incorporates LiDAR and radar systems for collision avoidance. Its 96-kilowatt electric drivetrain delivers a thrust-to-weight ratio exceeding two, enabling dynamic three-dimensional flight patterns.

A novel slide-and-lock mechanism allows for swift battery exchanges, mimicking pit-stop strategies in traditional motorsport. Production of more than ten test units is underway at the company’s technical headquarters in Adelaide, South Australia, following over three years of development. The Mk3 represents a pioneering step toward regulated aerial racing events.