Japanese architectural firm Mitsubishi Jisho Design has proposed a vision for the future utilizing next-generation transportation, specifically focusing on "flying cars," to transform urban buildings into new hubs for logistics and passenger traffic. The company envisions further diversification of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, similar to helicopters but capable of vertical takeoff and landing, as a future urban air transportation system. The firm proposes an architectural design to facilitate seamless movement of passengers and cargo, allowing for boarding and unloading without the need to pass through the interior of the building but instead utilizing ground, rooftop, or intermediate floors.

The proposal was unveiled on April 10th. The company highlights the advantages of eVTOL aircraft, which combine features of drones and helicopters, as a next-generation transportation mode that significantly enhances the convenience of urban mobility and logistics without requiring large-scale infrastructure like runways. They have developed their own operational system and design for an evolved version of flying cars, dubbed "Passenger VTOL."

The proposed size accommodates four passengers and incorporates features for airborne flight akin to drones, along with a vertical conveyance system installed on the exterior walls similar to elevator gondolas. Additionally, they have devised functionality to enable ground-level or rooftop travel by detaching the propeller unit. The design holds a European design right (DM/235029), valid across all European Union member states. However, the actual development entity has yet to be determined.

According to the company, the introduction of next-generation transportation is expected to stimulate innovative thinking, such as establishing entrances not only on conventional ground floors but also on rooftops and intermediate stories.

Details regarding immediate initiatives and schedules for societal implementation are currently undecided, although both domestic and international deployment are under consideration. (2024/04/11)