The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) never fails to disappoint and one of the more intriguing vehicles presented at this year’s event is the Aska A5, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. The Aska A5 is roughly the size of a typical SUV and has been described as the first four-seater electric vehicle that can travel by road and up to 402 km by air on a single charge. While more of an airplane/helicopter than a traditional car, the A5 has wings and propellors that can fold away whenever it needs to be used as a car.
The company behind the eVTOL says it is
powered by a proprietary power system combining lithium-ion battery packs with
a petrol engine acting as an onboard range extender. It is unclear how much
power the A5 has but Aska notes that it has four in-wheel electric motors to
produce all-wheel drive traction while also improving aerodynamics and
maximizing interior space. While the A5 can take off like a helicopter, it can
also take off along a runway like a traditional airplane. When flying, the
wings and six rotors unfold. Aska notes that the wing has been optimized for
“gliding, smooth landings, and efficient energy consumption.”
In addition to selling the A5 privately,
Aska plans to launch an on-demand ride service in 2026 with a fleet of its
eVTOLs.
