German startup aims to rise above what is expected to be a lucrative if crowded market

If they really are to be considered "cars," flying cars will require at least two things: tires for driving on the road, and propellers for flying through the air. Goodyear has combined the two into one unit – or actually into four units – with its Aero concept.

Another flying car company is preparing to join the race, as Australia's Macchina Volantis gears up to prototype its roadable 5-seat electric aircraft. With VTOL capability, winged flight mode and a diesel range extender, it should fly at three times highway speed and offer some serious range.

In its 50th test flight, Vahana's Alpha Two is starting to demonstrate its tilt-wing flight capabilities. Its eight electric props point skyward for vertical takeoff and landing, then tilt forward when in motion for efficient, quick winged flight over long ranges.