Flying car takes to the skies

It's ironic that, as car sales are sinking faster than ever, cars themselves are looking up and up - as the world's first 'affordable' flying car is unveiled.

It's still not quite a supermini in terms of price, but at £127,000, this is a true car of the future for mere Bentley Continental money - and it could hit the skies as early as next year.

Buyers will still have to hold a pilot's license to operate the Terrafugia Transition, but it will fit into a standard garage thanks to foldable wings, and has a range of 460-miles in the air. It can also be driven on roads, legally, as easily as any other car - and fuelled at the unleaded pump of a petrol station.

The Terrafugia is powered by a 100bhp engine, will cruise in the air at 115mph, and will actually take off vertically using thrusters! But before you start thinking about finally living out your Back to the Future II fantasy, take note: you'll need to drive to the airport before you can take off. Still, for a £6,500 deposit, a flying car could be yours next year.

Mark Nichol