The Moller Skycar M400 is a fascinating concept that has captured imaginations for decades. Lets delve into the details:

1. Description:

   • The M400 is a four-seat flying car with VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) capability. Its often referred to as a volantor.
   • Skycar models have been envisioned in various configurations, ranging from single-seat to six-seat accommodations.
   • The goal is to make it flyable by anyone who can drive, incorporating automated flight controls. The driver would only need to input direction and speed.
   • The body of the M400 resembles a fairly conventional four-seat ground vehicle, which provides some aerodynamic lift during forward flight.
   • Folding wings and a large, fixed horizontal stabilizer serve as the main lifting surfaces.
   • VTOL lift and forward thrust are achieved through four pivoting ducted fan pods that deflect air vertically for takeoff and horizontally for flight.
   • The Skycar is not piloted like a traditional fixed-wing airplane; instead, limited pilot controls inform the computer control system of desired flight maneuvers

2. Rotapower Engines:

   • The M400 prototypes use Rotapower engines, developed by an affiliate company called Freedom Motors.
   • Each power unit consists of a Wankel rotary engine directly driving a ducted fan.
   • The engines are enclosed in Kevlar-lined housings to contain fan blades in case of failure.
   • The Skycar has four nacelles, each with two Rotapower engines mounted in tandem.
   • All eight engines operate independently under computer control, allowing for a vertical controlled landing even if one engine fails.
   • The Rotapower engine can run on various fuels, including gasoline, diesel, methanol, and clean renewable ethanol.

3. Performance:

   • The M400 Skycar boasts impressive specs:
     • Range: Approximately 750 miles (about 1,200 km).
     • Ceiling: Up to 36,000 feet (around 11,000 meters).
     • Climb rate: More than one vertical mile per minute.

4. Operational Prototype:

   • The M400 Skycar is now in the operational prototype stage.
   • It combines the high-speed capabilities of a fixed-wing aircraft with the vertical take-off and landing capabilities of a helicopter.

5. Simulation Video:

   • Heres an animation demonstrating how to operate the Skycar: JRB to 87N (created using Microsoft Flight Simulator).
   • Buckle up and enjoy the virtual ride! ??️?

!Moller Skycar M400