For almost a century, we humans have dreamed of piloting flying cars in a technologically advanced future, and it looks like we’re finally getting to that point. While most major eVTOL innovations come from startups or technology companies outside of the automotive industry, there are still some major auto companies that are innovating in the eVTOL space. In this case, there is French automaker Renault, which has partnered with TheArsenale motion design center to create a flyable version of the famous Renault 4L, which they call the AIR4.
Renault AIR4 stands as a technological achievement celebrating the 60th anniversary of Renault‘s famous 4L. The original Renault 4 was a cornerstone of the automotive industry between 1961 and 1992, selling more than 8 million units in over 100 countries over 30 years.
It might not have the sexy appeal of a supercar, but the Renault 4 has helped millions of young drivers get behind the wheel and has served as a great utility vehicle for families and businesses alike. In fact, the car’s “blue jeans” status was why TheArsenale wanted to collaborate with Renault to reinterpret the 4L to fly above the roads it once lived on. AIR4 was designed to symbolize independence and freedom, a response to the worsening problems of congested traffic and the emotional erosion it causes. Aesthetically speaking, we can say that the AIR4 retains the classic, rigid body style of the 4L, but its body has been converted to carbon fiber construction.
Some AIR4 Specs
The AIR4 doesn’t have wheels but instead has four double-bladed propellers. The chassis is placed in the middle of the routing frame. It is powered by 22,000 mAh lithium polymer batteries with a total capacity of 90,000 mAh and can fly to a height of 700 meters. The take-off speed of 14 m/s is limited to a take-off speed of 4 m/s and a landing speed of 3 m/s for safety reasons. Renault has not yet announced whether the AIR4 will be mass-produced. Click here for detailed information.
