Dapeng-based FAW Qiyi (Shenzhen) Technology Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of state-owned automaker FAW Group, has successfully completed the first tethered test flight of its flying car prototype, the “Hongqi Tiannian 1,” on Dec. 28.

FAW Qiyi (Shenzhen) Technology Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of state-owned automaker FAW Group, has successfully completed the first tethered test flight of its flying car prototype, the “Hongqi Tiannian 1,” on Dec. 28.

The “Hongqi Tiannian 1 tests flight on Dec. 28. Courtesy of iDapeng WeChat account

The electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle, developed as part of FAW’s strategic move into the low-altitude economy, performed its initial flight in a protected mode with safety restraints and within a limited airspace. The test validated core systems including power output and flight control response.

Designed with a composite-wing configuration, the prototype is capable of vertical take-off and landing while maintaining efficient high-speed cruise performance. It features redundant power systems, intelligent obstacle avoidance, and low-noise technology aimed at meeting both aviation safety and passenger comfort standards.

The two-seater flying car is expected to have a range of over 200 kilometers and a cruising speed of 150 km/h once fully developed. A trip from Shenzhen to Zhuhai, about 50 kilometers, could be reduced to roughly 20 minutes, cutting travel time by about 85% compared to ground transportation.

FAW Qiyi, established in July 2025 and based in Dapeng New District, plans to develop the city into a hub for low-altitude mobility. The company aims to advance R&D, manufacturing, and operational services for flying cars, supporting urban air mobility, logistics, tourism, and emergency response applications.