Story ID: 335OshkoshTerrafugia
Terrafugia Upgrades Its Flying Car
By: Curt Epstein
Caption: Ahead of its planned market introduction fot the Transition, the company detailed a list of improvements for the vehicle at Oshkosh.
Word Count: 254
Ahead of its planned 2019 market introduction, flying car maker Terrafugia announced several new features on Monday at EAA AirVenture for its Transition production vehicle. These upgrades will also be retrofitted into the company’s test vehicles and are on display at the show this week.

In driving mode, the Transition will now operate as a hybrid, using a combination of an internal combustion engine and lithium-iron-phosphate battery, one of the safest lithium battery chemistries. The safety systems also received an upgrade with improved seatbelts, airbags, and three rearview cameras in drive mode. Partner BRS will supply a full-frame parachute for the vehicle.

Dynon is providing the electrical flight information systems (EFIS), and the Transition’s throttle incorporates a “boost” feature for a brief burst of extra power while flying. The cabin interior also received a makeover, with upgraded seats, increased luggage capacity, and intuitive user interface.

“Developing this new technology has allowed us to test several different mechanisms and generate process improvements along the way,” explained Terrafugia CEO Chris Jaran. “We are at the critical point where we can implement the best design features based on years of flight and drive testing. This will improve function, safety, and aesthetics for the optimal flying and driving experience.”

Given its dual functionality, the Transition is required to comply with both FAA and National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standards. The company said that many of the new features will enable the vehicle to accomplish this.