Last October, Xpeng AeroHT, a subsidiary of China’s EV maker Xpeng specializing in eVTOLs and flying cars, unveiled an otherworldly digital concept that blurred the lines between a futuristic van and pickup hybrid. Named the Land Aircraft Carrier, it featured three axles, six wheels, and the capability to carry a small electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle (eVTOL). While many initially believed the vehicle would remain confined to the virtual world, Xpeng seems to be moving forward with plans to make it a production reality. A heavily camouflaged prototype of the Land Aircraft Carrier was recently snapped on a flatbed in China outside an Xpeng facility. Chinese media report that the brand was encouraged by the response to the original concept and is moving forward with the development of the model intending to start orders this year before customer deliveries kick off in 2025.

These photos show that much of the concept’s design will likely go unchanged for production.The vehicle maintains the same overall shape as the Land Aircraft Carrier and shares similar proportions. The front half resembles the X9 minivan with a short overhang and a sharp roofline. From certain angles, it appears that Xpeng AeroHT’s designers drew inspiration from the Tesla Cybertruck, particularly evident in the angular canopy of the truck.

                                                                   

While the prototype bears resemblance to the concept, it’s unlikely that it will include an eVTOL in the storage compartment upon market release. The eVTOL industry is still in its early stages, and obtaining approval from relevant authorities for such aircraft would be a lengthy process. Conversely, securing approval for a six-wheeled pickup/van like this for road use would likely be a faster endeavor. The Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6 from a decade ago was a catalyst for the fascination held by many enthusiasts for vehicles with three axles and six wheels. 6×6 conversions have become common across the aftermarket for pickup trucks and SUVs and it seems Xpeng wants to cash in on this interest.

Technical specifications about the Land Aircraft Carrier are not yet known, but it will inevitably be all-electric and likely borrow its battery pack and motors from existing Nio models.