BYD Dispels Rumors Regarding an Electric Flying Car
Contrary to online speculation, BYD has clarified that it is not developing a flying car. The Chinese electric vehicle leader responded to recent rumors by stating unequivocally that it has no plans to enter the flying car market.
The speculation emerged following a social media video suggesting that BYD’s premium Yangwang brand was preparing to introduce a flying vehicle named “Ufly.” The post alleged that the model would feature BYD’s high-speed Megawatt Flash Charging technology and other advanced systems.

Further unverified articles circulated additional claims, including one that the flying car had completed a 136-kilometer test flight from Zhuhai to Shenzhen in July, while others asserted it had obtained special certifications for flight within China.
However, these reports have been refuted by BYD. On Thursday, Li Yunfei, BYD’s head of brand and public relations, posted on Weibo, stating, “We have no such plans or arrangements.” He further emphasized the importance of responsible online conduct, noting that BYD recently won a defamation case against influencers who spread false information.

While BYD is not pursuing a flying car, several other automakers—both in China and globally—are advancing in this area. For instance, XPeng’s subsidiary Aridge is developing two flight systems: the “Land Aircraft Carrier” for personal use and the hybrid “A868” designed for longer journeys with greater passenger capacity. As of November, the Land Aircraft Carrier had reportedly received over 7,000 orders globally and entered mass production.

Other Chinese automakers, including Chery, GAC Group, FAW Group, and Changan Auto, are also reportedly exploring electric or hybrid flying vehicles. In the United States, California-based Alef Aeronautics recently announced it has begun manufacturing its first electric flying cars for customer delivery. Initial units are being assembled by hand in Silicon Valley and will soon be delivered to early customers for testing. A recently released video even showed Alef’s prototype maneuvering over a Tesla Cybertruck.

Meanwhile, Tesla has filed a patent for a “fan car” system aimed at enhancing traction and performance—though not a full flying car. Given Elon Musk’s track record of innovation, however, an eventual Tesla flying vehicle would not come as a complete surprise.