Hovering Egg Car Volkswagen

When Volkswagen invited its customers to think up some ideas, it was perhaps inevitable that there would be at least one flying car design put forward. But one concept – the ‘Hover Car’ – impressed the firm so much a short YouTube video was made to showcase it. It’s not quite as exciting as the flying DeLorean from Back to the Future – but Volkwagen’s airborne vehicle would certainly turn a few heads.



Air we go: Volkswagen's concept Hover Car

Flying game: The Hover Car glides just a foot or so above the ground

The video shows an enthusiastic couple stepping into what looks like a giant yo-yo, with clear doors. They then take it for a spin to show what a journey of the future may look like. The Hover Car sits just a foot or two in the air, using electromagnetic road networks to get from A to B. Maneuverability is a definite plus-point, as it can turn easily on the spot.

While the Hover Car doesn’t look very sturdy, occupants’ safety is enhanced by on-board sensors that detect obstacles and a computer that will cut speed automatically should a crash be imminent. The unique car was the result of Volkwagen's ‘People’s Car Project’, which was launched in China last year. The project's website received 33million visitors and more than 119,000 ideas.

Safety first: Should the Hover Car meet an obstacle the onboard computer adjusts the speed to avoid a crash

Hi-tech: Sensors monitor traffic around the car

The ‘Music Car’ and the ‘Smart Key’ joined the Hover Car in being presented at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. ‘The creative ideas from the “People’s Car Project” give us a valuable insight into the wishes of Chinese drivers.’ Simon Loasby, Head of Design at Volkswagen Group China, said. ‘The trend is towards safe cars that can easily navigate overcrowded roads and have a personal, emotional and exciting design.’ The Smart Key takes up the trend towards the stronger integration of online technologies in vehicles.

Hitting the right notes: The exterior colour of the Music Car changes with the driver's choice of music

The slim nine-millimetre key has a high-resolution touchscreen which keeps the driver up to date on the fuel situation, climate conditions and the car’s security via a 3G network. The driver can also monitor the vehicle from a bird’s eye perspective through real-time satellite transmission. The Music Car, meanwhile, is equipped with organic light emitting diodes, with the exterior colour of the vehicle changing with the driver’s choice of music.








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