Latest news with #PAL-V
The National
20-04-2025
- Automotive
- The National
Self-driving taxis to hit Dubai roads this year under China tech partnership
A fleet of 'latest generation' self-driving taxis will hit the roads of Dubai this year, ahead of the full launch of operations in 2026. Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has joined forces with China's Baidu in a major transport partnership that will see 1,000 of the company's autonomous vehicles on the move in the emirate by 2028. Dubai will trial 50 of the cutting-edge cars – operated under Baidu's ride-hailing service Apollo Go – in the coming months for data collection and testing to be conducted. This will pave the way for an official launch of the service next year, marking a significant step forward in Dubai's goal to have 25 per cent of all journeys in Dubai to be made autonomously by 2030. The UAE aims to become a leader in smart mobility systems to boost sustainability and adopt the latest technologies. Dubai began supervised testing of driverless vehicles on its public roads in October 2023 after the US self-driving tech company Cruise, which is backed by General Motors and Honda Motor, was issued with a trial permit. In Abu Dhabi, Uber and China's WeRide launched the Middle East's first commercial driverless mobility service in December. The UAE capital already has its own fleet of driverless taxis on Yas Island run by TXAI, the UAE's first driverless taxi service. In addition, electric air taxis are expected to begin operating in Dubai during the first quarter of 2026, the RTA confirmed in September. On Friday, The National revealed talks are under way to begin manufacturing a revolutionary 'flying car' in Sharjah, a project that centres on a vehicle that can function on the road and in the air. Developed by Dutch company PAL-V, it was shown at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park this week as Robert Dingemanse, the company's chief executive and co-founder, spoke of the vehicle's potential. PAL-V describes its creation as a 'fly-drive' vehicle, or an advanced air mobility solution. The EU Aviation Safety Agency has formally issued a 'no technical objection' certificate for the vehicle, called the PAL-V Liberty, a hybrid of a three-wheeled car and a gyroplane.
Gulf Today
18-04-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Today
Sharjah revs up futuristic drive with unique flying car
In a move reflecting Sharjah's leadership in adopting future technologies, the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park) on Thursday unveiled a unique flying car in partnership with the Dutch company PAL-V. The PAL-V gyroplane, which combines the capabilities of a three-wheeled car and a helicopter, allowing users to drive on roads and fly. The vehicle comes with two engines and folding rotors, allowing it to move smoothly with other cars on the road. The vehicle was the cynosure of all eyes as PAL-V officials provided an indoor demonstration at the SRTI Park, and explained its functionality and ability to travel on land and in the air. PAL-V is now also the first to complete the full certification basis with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The car, under development since 2008, is designed for both road and air travel. It functions as a conventional vehicle on the ground but can be quickly converted into an aircraft, offering a unique door-to-door mobility solution. Talks are ongoing between PAL-V and SRTI Park to establish a collaboration as Advanced Air Mobility market is set to touch $2.9 trillion, according to Morgan Stanley. The event, which took place during SRTI Park's first Business Breakfast of 2025, brought together prominent figures from the investors, entrepreneurs, and partners from diverse economic and technological sectors. Speaking on the occasion, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTIP, stressed that the Park has become the go-to destination for startups and innovators seeking to turn bold ideas into thriving ventures. He stated: 'The demonstration of the Pal-V Flying Car is not only about showcasing a groundbreaking innovation, but it reflects a broader vision we uphold at SRTIP — to serve as a regional hub for enabling emerging technologies and connecting them with the market. We've built an integrated ecosystem that blends innovation with investment, making SRTIP the platform of choice for entrepreneurs and investors looking to reach customers and achieve real-world impact.' Robert Dingemanse, Founder and CEO of the Dutch company PAL-V, delivered a detailed presentation on the unique flying car, covering its development journey, technical capabilities, and ongoing talks with SRTIP to collaborate and scale this revolutionary vehicle in the region. He also said that the company had a good headstart over competitors, with paid pre-orders of over 150 million Euros. The Business Breakfast agenda also featured presentations on SRTIP's partner services and startup support platforms, followed by the Shuraka' Majlis, a dedicated roundtable that enabled participants to exchange ideas and explore collaborative opportunities. Additionally, the event hosted one-on-one meetings between entrepreneurs and prospective investors, offering an ideal setting for networking and strategic dialogue in an innovation-driven environment. This edition of the Business Breakfast marks the integration of two of SRTIP's signature platforms — the Business Breakfast and the Partner Council — into a unified format under the Business Breakfast umbrella. The aim is to foster stronger engagement across the ecosystem and stimulate strategic conversations between the public and private sectors. According to a recent report, The Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) and AIM Congress have entered into a partnership agreement to attract technology scaleups, create business opportunities, and support innovation. Under the agreement, SRTIP will offer exclusive packages to scaleups introduced through AIM's network, facilitating their setup and growth within the vibrant innovation park. In addition, the collaboration will promote the Sharjah Advanced Industry Accelerator (SAIA), SRTIP flagship programme designed to support late-stage startups in accessing advanced industry markets, engaging with decision-makers, and exploring pilot projects. Commenting on the partnership, SRTI Park CEO Hussain Al Mahmoudi said, 'SRTIP, one of the region's dynamic innovation zones, is delighted to team up with AIM Congress as we pursue our ambitious growth plans. We share synergies with AIM Congress whose goal is to foster investment opportunities and create stronger trade bonds between nations.'
Zawya
18-04-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park unveils flying car
SHARJAH - The Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) has unveiled a unique Flying Car in partnership with the Dutch company PAL-V. The PAL-V gyroplane, which combines the capabilities of a three-wheeled car and a helicopter, allows users to drive on roads and fly in the air. The vehicle comes with two engines and folding rotors, allowing it to move smoothly with other cars on the road. The vehicle was the cynosure of all eyes as PAL-V officials provided an indoor demonstration at the SRTI Park, and explained its functionality and ability to travel on land and in the air. PAL-V is also the first to complete the full certification basis with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The car, which has been under development since 2008, is designed for both road and air travel. It functions as a conventional vehicle on the ground but can be quickly converted into an aircraft, offering a unique door-to-door mobility solution. Talks are ongoing between PAL-V and SRTI Park to establish a collaboration as the Advanced Air Mobility market is set to touch $2.9 trillion, according to Morgan Stanley. The event, which took place during SRTI Park's first Business Breakfast of 2025, brought together prominent figures from the investors, entrepreneurs, and partners from diverse economic and technological sectors. Speaking on the occasion, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTIP, stressed that the Park has become the go-to destination for startups and innovators seeking to turn bold ideas into thriving ventures. He stated, 'The demonstration of the Pal-V Flying Car is not only about showcasing a groundbreaking innovation, but it reflects a broader vision we uphold at SRTIP — to serve as a regional hub for enabling emerging technologies and connecting them with the market. We've built an integrated ecosystem that blends innovation with investment, making SRTIP the platform of choice for entrepreneurs and investors looking to reach customers and achieve real-world impact.' Robert Dingemanse, Founder and CEO of the Dutch company PAL-V, delivered a detailed presentation on the unique flying car, covering its development journey, technical capabilities, and ongoing talks with SRTIP to collaborate and scale this revolutionary vehicle in the region. He also said the company had a good headstart over competitors, with paid pre-orders of over 150 million Euros. The Business Breakfast agenda also featured presentations on SRTIP's partner services and startup support platforms, followed by the Shuraka' Majlis, a dedicated roundtable that enabled participants to exchange ideas and explore collaborative opportunities. Additionally, the event hosted one-on-one meetings between entrepreneurs and prospective investors, offering an ideal setting for networking and strategic dialogue in an innovation-driven environment. This edition of the Business Breakfast marks the integration of two of SRTIP's signature platforms — the Business Breakfast and the Partner Council — into a unified format under the Business Breakfast umbrella. The aim is to foster stronger engagement across the ecosystem and stimulate strategic conversations between the public and private sectors.
Sharjah 24
17-04-2025
- Automotive
- Sharjah 24
SRTI Park unveils Flying Car with unique capabilities
The PAL-V gyroplane, which combines the capabilities of a three-wheeled car and a helicopter, allowing users to drive on roads and fly in the air. The vehicle comes with two engines and folding rotors, allowing it to move smoothly with other cars on the road. The vehicle was the cynosure of all eyes as PAL-V officials provided an indoor demonstration at the SRTI Park, and explained its functionality and ability to travel on land and in the air. PAL-V is now also the first to complete the full certification basis with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The car, under development since 2008, is designed for both road and air travel. It functions as a conventional vehicle on the ground but can be quickly converted into an aircraft, offering a unique door-to-door mobility solution. Talks are ongoing between PAL-V and SRTI Park to establish a collaboration as Advanced Air Mobility market is set to touch $2.9 trillion, according to Morgan Stanley. The event, which took place during SRTI Park's first Business Breakfast of 2025, brought together prominent figures from the investors, entrepreneurs, and partners from diverse economic and technological sectors. Speaking on the occasion, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTIP, stressed that the Park has become the go-to destination for startups and innovators seeking to turn bold ideas into thriving ventures. He stated: "The demonstration of the Pal-V Flying Car is not only about showcasing a groundbreaking innovation, but it reflects a broader vision we uphold at SRTIP — to serve as a regional hub for enabling emerging technologies and connecting them with the market. We've built an integrated ecosystem that blends innovation with investment, making SRTIP the platform of choice for entrepreneurs and investors looking to reach customers and achieve real-world impact." Mr. Robert Dingemanse, Founder and CEO of the Dutch company PAL-V, delivered a detailed presentation on the unique flying car, covering its development journey, technical capabilities, and ongoing talks with SRTIP to collaborate and scale this revolutionary vehicle in the region. He also said that the company had a good headstart over competitors, with paid pre-orders of over 150 million Euros. The Business Breakfast agenda also featured presentations on SRTIP's partner services and startup support platforms, followed by the Shuraka' Majlis, a dedicated roundtable that enabled participants to exchange ideas and explore collaborative opportunities. Additionally, the event hosted one-on-one meetings between entrepreneurs and prospective investors, offering an ideal setting for networking and strategic dialogue in an innovation-driven environment. This edition of the Business Breakfast marks the integration of two of SRTIP's signature platforms — the Business Breakfast and the Partner Council — into a unified format under the Business Breakfast umbrella. The aim is to foster stronger engagement across the ecosystem and stimulate strategic conversations between the public and private sectors.
Gulf News
17-04-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf News
Look: Sharjah showcases $800,000 car that can fly from Abu Dhabi to Muscat in 2 hours 20 minutes
SHARJAH: Friday morning in Sharjah, Mamzar Beach is calling, but traffic is already heavy. Instead of joining the snaking line of cars on Corniche Road, navigate to a nearby designated airstrip and press a button on your car that can fly. After a quick system check, you receive local air traffic control clearance. With a powerful surge, the three-wheeled Liberty speeds down the runway, and within moments, the rotor engages, lifting you smoothly into the air above the gridlock. Traffic be gone! At least that was the vision presented by Robert Dingemanse - CEO and Founder of PAL-V – a Dutch company that has developed a roadworthy flying car. The company's prototype flying car – PAL-V Liberty - was unveiled on Thursday at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP). From Abu Dhabi to Muscat in 2 hours According to the inventor, the car flies from one GCC nation to another in 2 hours and 20 minutes. 'For example, it can go from Dubai to Bahrain in 2 hours 20 minutes,' said Dingemanse. It can go from Abu Dhabi to Muscat and other countries in the region in a similar time frame. 'I've been in disruptive technologies my whole life. Our design philosophy of complying with existing road and air regulations saved us many years in time to market,' said Dingemanse - who started developing the vehicle in 2008. He added, 'Instead of opting for a flying car concept based on not yet existing or immature technologies, requiring new regulations, we deliberately chose to design, engineer and manufacture a flying car with proven technologies.' The vehicle has a payload of 2 persons and 20kg of luggage for a 500 km journey. The company received its European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification earlier this month. This is the first time we have issued a No Technical Objection (NTO) for a FlyDrive vehicle in the Innovative Air Mobility sector. What is PAL-V Liberty? The PAL-V Liberty, known as the world's first real flying car due to the combination of a gyroplane and a vehicle, addresses the need to travel independently from (congested) roads and enhance travel flexibility. With a flight range of 500 km and a maximum airspeed of 180 km/h, the Liberty shortens commute and travel times. According to its inventor, the $800,000 car that can fly is a unique two-seater vehicle that seamlessly transforms from a three-wheeled road car into a gyroplane in approximately three minutes. Unlike other electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, PAL-V Liberty needs a short airstrip of about 200 meters for take-off and 30 meters for landing. Additionally, the pilot needs a specific gyroplane license obtained through the PAL-V institute. 'Plans are underway to open multiple training centres worldwide,' said Dingemanse. PAL-V in the UAE The UAE has been actively exploring and laying the groundwork for eVTOL technology in recent years, with ambitions accelerating particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. According to the founder CEO, the total value of PAL-V's current order book is between €150 to €200 million. And at least 20-30 per cent of the order value originates from the Middle East. Aviterra, a Dubai-based company, ordered PAL-V to bring 101 Liberty flying cars to the Middle East and Africa. Aviterra is run and backed by one of the founders of Jetex – an executive aviation company. The company is now seeking clearances from local aviation authorities such as UAE's GCAA and Saudi Arabia's GACA for operation. 'The good thing is that the world is looking at what EASA and the FAA are doing because they are major certification bodies worldwide. I received confirmation from the CAAC in China that they've asked us to start applying for the last phase,' he said. 'Our goal is to build a fully-functional assembly line in the Middle East eventually,' said Dingemanse. All the production is currently happening in the Netherlands. Sharjah's SRTI Park hopes to act as a "conduit", bringing together academia, industry, and government to advance the technology. Juma Alhaj - communications strategy and marketing director – said they are in discussions with PAL-V about potentially hosting the assembly line for their unique dual-purpose flying car in Sharjah, with the aim of "bolstering the economy" and utilizing local university resources for further research and development. Use-case scenarios Here are the potential uses of the PAL-V Liberty, according to its inventor: Quick transport of specialists to crisis areas. Safer driving and flying compared to other aircraft. Accessing locations inaccessible to helicopters by land. Potentially safer than helicopters. Observation missions. Peacekeeping missions. Policing. First responders. Coast guards. Quick transportation of goods and employees (highlighted in Austria). Support for peace-keeping operations. VIP taxi services (Kuwait Airways MOU).
