Aston Martin and Rolls-Royce Joined Forces to Design This Luxurious Self-Flying Jet

James Bond would approve.

Aston Martin took on the seas in style with the ultra-luxe Project Neptune personal submarine. Now they’ve set their sights on the skies.  

The supercar manufacturer joined forces with Rolls-Royce to create the Volante Vision Concept, an autonomous personal jet capable of hitting 200 mph.  

Designed with the urban commuter in mind, the concept aircraft is powered by a gas turbine hybrid propulsion system created by Rolls-Royce. 

Cranfield University, an England-based institution that developed vertical take-off and landing technologies employed by military jets, collaborated with the luxury car companies to create a tri-rotor propeller set-up capable of VTOL. 

Aston Martin Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Simon Sproule elaborated on Cranfield University’s proven pedigree: 

“Their heritage in VTOL systems is quite strong,” Sproule told Auto Express. “They did the Harrier system and they currently do the system for the new F-35 Lightning which has just started service with the air force.” 

A fighter-style canopy opens to reveal a 1+2 seating configuration styled with lavish features fit for one of James Bond’s DBs. 

Aston Martin President and CEO Andy Palmer explained what makes the Volante Vision Concept a practical solution to traveling in ever-growing cities.

“With the population in urban areas continuing to grow, congestion in towns and cities will become increasingly demanding,” Palmer said. “We need to look at alternative solutions to reduce congestion, cut pollution and improve mobility.” 

“Air travel will be a crucial part in the future of transportation” he added. “The Volante Vision Concept is the ultimate luxury mobility solution.” 

Get acquainted with Aston’s bold new vehicle in the gallery above. 

h/t: Motoring Research