In a crossover from Sci-Fi to reality, flying taxis could become a reality by 2020. A prototype system, developed by Rolls-Royce (RR), could pave the way for this game-changing mode of transportation.

RR’s exciting cutting-edge prototype, known as eVOL made its public debut this year’s Farnborough air show. At the unveiling, the company announced it was currently searching for partners to assist with the development of the concept.

In theory, the vehicle would use M20 gas turbine technology to propel the vehicle with minimal noise and without the cumbersome need to recharge it.

Like something out of Bladerunner or the Fifth Element, the vehicle would be equipped with wings that can rotate 90 degrees and fold away at cruising height.

It would have the capacity to carry four or five passengers at speeds of up to 250 mph for an estimated 500 miles. The company has said of the prototype it has the potential to be used for personal transport, public transport, logistics or military applications.

The head of Rolls-Royce’s electrical team, Rob Watson said: “Building on our existing expertise in electric technologies and aviation, Rolls-Royce is actively exploring a range of possible markets and applications for electric and hybrid electric flight.”

Flying Vehicles Part of an Inescapable Trend

Aston Martin, Uber, Airbus, Boeing, China’s EHang, Switzerland’s Passenger Drone and Japan’s Cartivator project are just a few of the big names in the race to get the first flying car to market. There are at least 19 companies in the process of developing flying car plans.

The roadable PAL-V Liberty, the creation of a Dutch venture, seems to be the forerunner to reach the market first, which is already taking orders for the vehicle. The company says that deliveries should begin by 2020.

Aston Martin recently took to Twitter to show off its luxury personal air the vehicle the Volante Vision, which means 007’s next ride could be a flying car. According to the company it would be able to travel between London and Paris non-stop in an hour.

Opener, a Silicon Valley start-up backed by Google co-founder Larry Page, recently unveiled its offering The BlackFly.

Uber has even signed a Space Act Agreement with NASA to create a new traffic control system to manage these ‘sky taxis’.

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