The Jetsons are heading to New Hampshire as it has become the first state to legalize flying cars. The “Jetson Bill,” HB 1182 legalizes and allows flying cars to drive on public roads. The new law creates an option with the DMV for the owner of a “roadable aircraft” to register the vehicle and attain plates for the car. As an airplane, it would still need to take off and land at local airports.
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Flying vehicles will need FAA certification, must be flown by a trained pilot, and be airworthy. State legislators worked to fill discrepancies between state motor vehicle regulations and the FAA. Pilots must have an annual physical to keep their flying license, while FAA-certified mechanics will need to conduct an annual inspection of the vehicle. The bill adopts the plane ID number issued by the New Hampshire’s aeronautics agency as the VIN. Under the law, each vehicle must have an FAA “N” number for national use with a New Hampshire license plate for local police.
New and unique models are being designed every few years with new concepts and interior detailing that defies current concepts. The Aeromobil seats two people can travel up to 100 MPH, and offers a range of almost 500 miles. The PALV- Liberty has top speeds of 110 MPH, offers seating for two, and can range almost 400 miles before needing to refuel. It starts at $400,000. The E-Chang 184 is only $300,000, with a top speed of 65 MPH, with a range of 350 miles. As the market begins to become more affordable, these continuously improved machines are sure to attract the attention of investors looking to beat the traffic while modernizing their current mode of travel.
The FAA hasn’t approved any flying cars yet, but the opportunity for locals in New Hampshire to fly such a vehicle legally just took one major step forward into the future.
State Rep. Steven Smith heads his state’s autonomous vehicle review commission, and said, “I look for ways to boost our image as a state that embraces technological change. Maybe people will come here first.” With the new law came some more practical legislation, like new changes on tolls, impaired driving, and license revocation.
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Sources: https://www.beautifullife.info/automotive-design/10-real-flying-cars/
https://www.autoblog.com/2020/08/04/new-hampshire-flying-cars-public-roads/
