Terrafugia started development of the TF-X in 2013 and the updated design of the exterior was done in 2014 by Vedran Martinek, an Automotive Designer from Croatia. When in flight, the TF-X is effectively autonomous, with the computer able to navigate to a pre-specified landing zone—and pre-selected backup landing zones—by itself, although manual controls and overrides exist. Final landing must be approved by the pilot. The TF-X will also provide operators the choice to fly in either manual or automatic during flight with the ability to control the vehicle in a manner similar to steering the wheel of an automobile. Terrafugia claims that learning to drive the TF-X is likely to take five hours and will take substantially less time to learn how to safely operate than a traditional aircraft.^[4]

Safety features edit

The TF-X is expected to be capable of avoiding air traffic, bad weather, and restricted and tower-controlled airspace. For additional safety features, the TF-X would automatically land at the nearest airport if the operator becomes unresponsive. Additionally, if a TF-X operator declares an emergency, the authorities will be automatically notified of the situation and the TF-X can be landed in a non-approved landing zone. The TF-X also features a backup full vehicle parachute system that can be activated if the operator believes the vehicle is incapable of auto-landing.^[4]

Pricing edit

Pricing is expected to be upwards of £200,000 (roughly $300,000).^[5]

Data from Terrafugia

General characteristics

• Crew: 1
• Capacity: 3
• Powerplant: 2 × TFX POD Hybrid Electric, 670 hp (500 kW) each

Performance

• Range: 430 nmi (500 mi, 800 km)

• Terrafugia Transition

• YouTube Video