Flying cars are stealing the limelight at the 21st China International Cultural Industries Fair in Shenzhen, south China's leading tech hub, offering a glimpse into the future of urban low-altitude mobility.
This year's event, running from May 22 to 26, features an artificial intelligence (AI) exhibition area for the first time, where some of the latest products from 22 local tech companies, such as robots, drones, smart glasses, and smart earphones are on display.
Among the innovations is a hybrid-wing flying car powered by a domestically developed electric propulsion system. Designed for vertical takeoff and landing as well as efficient cruise flight, it is expected to meet the inter-city travel needs of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Visitors are captivated by the flying car's futuristic design and a quicker and more enjoyable commute.
"The low-altitude economy will also bring great convenience to our life. We are paying attention to this area. It may take several hours to drive, but now it only takes half an hour to get there by plane or fly your own plane," said a visitor.
"Besides saving time, we are able to see a broader view, like flying over the sea or enjoying mountain scenery," said another visitor.
The expo also features other innovations in future transportation, including a single-seat aircraft equipped with a fuselage airbag for enhanced safety.
It utilizes AI-assisted piloting and electronic geofencing to ensure safe low-altitude flight for scenarios such as tourism, government services and inspections.
"We will continue to innovate and iterate, making low-altitude aircraft even smarter, safer, and more efficient. In the near future, individuals will be able to pilot the single-seat aircraft to enjoy the beautiful scenery and feel the sky," said Chen Yuan, an exhibitor.
Shenzhen is at the forefront of developing low-altitude economy, with an output value projected to exceed 100 billion yuan in 2025.
The city also plans to build over 1,000 takeoff and landing platforms and launch over 1,000 commercial flight routes by the end of this year.
The Civil Aviation Administration of China estimates that the country's low-altitude market will soar from 500 billion yuan in 2023 to 1.5 trillion yuan in 2025 and up to 3.5 trillion yuan in 2035.
Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Suzhou and dozens of other cities have announced supportive policies to develop the low-altitude economy.
Flying cars steal show at cultural industry fair in Shenzhen
