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Radical new tech brings flying cars closer to reality

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Radical new tech brings flying cars closer to reality

Remember those futuristic dreams of flying cars we saw in “The Jetsons”? 

Well, they might be closer than you think. 

CycloTech, an Austrian aviation company, is turning heads with its BlackBird demonstrator, an electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle (eVTOL) designed to showcase a game-changing propulsion system. 

Could this be the technology that finally makes flying cars a practical reality?

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BlackBird demonstrator. (CycloTech)

What makes BlackBird special?

CycloTech isn’t just building another eVTOL. It’s hinging its vision on unique CycloRotor technology. What’s so special about it? Well, the BlackBird demonstrator is designed to test the seventh generation of CycloTech’s 360-degree thrust vectoring propulsion system. 

CycloTech claims that its CycloRotor technology is the only propulsion system that can fully control the thrust vector in strength and direction throughout a complete 360-degree path. This allows the Blackbird demonstrator to have unmatched maneuverability; imagine a vehicle that can take off and land vertically, move sideways, brake mid-air and even parallel park. With six CycloRotors, the BlackBird is designed to do just that.

Also, the BlackBird’s design aims to decouple the flight path from the aircraft’s orientation, promising a smooth and comfortable ride even in less-than-ideal conditions without needing to bank or tilt. When it comes to safety, the Blackbird has it covered with its six CycloRotors, providing redundancy in the event of an engine failure, allowing the aircraft to continue to fly in a controlled manner. CycloTech CEO Hans-Georg Kinsky notes, “With our BlackBird, we are showing how this innovative technology will open up the market for flying cars.”

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BlackBird demonstrator. (CycloTech)

ORLANDO’S PLAN FOR FLYING CARS TAKES OFF

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BlackBird demonstrator specs and features

The BlackBird demonstrator, which completed development at the end of 2024, boasts impressive specifications and is currently undergoing flight testing:

  • Size: Approximately three-quarters the size of a potential flying car (approximately 16 feet long, 7.5 feet wide, and 6.5 feet tall.
  • Weight: Maximum take-off weight of 750 lbs
  • Speed: Up to 75 mph
  • Propulsion: Six electric-driven 7th generation CycloRotors
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Interior of BlackBird demonstrator. (CycloTech)

THIS FLYING MOTORCYCLE CAN TAKE YOU FROM TRAFFIC TO SKY IN MINUTES

Safety and redundancy

Safety is paramount in aviation, and CycloTech addresses this with a multi-rotor design. “That’s why we at CycloTech use at least six CycloRotors to ensure that the aircraft can continue to fly in a controlled manner in the event of an engine failure,” explains Kinsky. The 360° thrust vector control also allows the aircraft to brake and stop mid-air, enhancing control and safety, particularly in congested airspace. The two CycloRotors along the vehicle’s length enable sideways flight without banking, further increasing maneuverability.

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flying car 4

BlackBird demonstrator. (CycloTech)

A FLYING SHOPPING CART COULD MAKE YOUR FUTURE GROCERY RUNS THAT MUCH EASIER

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Advantages of CycloRotor technology

CycloRotors enable the construction of compact aircraft, potentially half the size of those using propellers or rotors. This compact design means they can be more easily integrated into existing environments without requiring special infrastructure. The BlackBird demonstrator showcases the capabilities of the 7th generation CycloRotor, offering precise control, vertical take-off and landing, and maximum stability at various pitch angles (up to 30 degrees while hovering). This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications.

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BlackBird demonstrator. (CycloTech)

First flight on the horizon

The first flight of the BlackBird is planned for the first quarter of 2025. This flight will build upon the knowledge gained from over 800 successful flights of CycloTech’s first-generation flight demonstrator.

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flying car 6

BlackBird demonstrator. (CycloTech)

Kurt’s key takeaways

CycloTech’s BlackBird demonstrator offers a glimpse into a potential future where flying cars are more than just a future concept. With its unique CycloRotor technology, its emphasis on safety and maneuverability, and with test flights on the horizon, the BlackBird is definitely one to watch. The prospect of electric air vehicles to cut down on pollution is appealing, and the Cyclotech system could be the key that unlocks Urban air mobility. Will CycloTech be the company that finally brings flying cars to the masses? Only time will tell, but they’re certainly making a compelling case.

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Given CycloTech’s emphasis on safety features like its multi-rotor redundancy and advanced maneuverability, how much trust would you place in the technology to feel comfortable flying in the BlackBird or a similar vehicle when it’s ready for passenger use? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Porsche’s next Taycan gets an infotainment upgrade — but no new CarPlay

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Porsche’s next Taycan gets an infotainment upgrade — but no new CarPlay

Porsche is upgrading the infotainment in the upcoming 2026 model year Taycan, 911, Panamera, and Cayenne with “more responsive” software and features such as an Alexa personal assistant.

The 2026 Porsche Communication Management (PCM) will get the Porsche App Center introduced in the Macan Electric. It provides “direct access to a large number of apps” and a “wide range of services” that can run on the touchscreen. In an email with The Verge, Porsche spokesperson Calvin Kim said these new models run on the MIB3 architecture, first launched in 2022, and not Google’s Android Automotive OS like in the Macan Electric.

Porsche’s in-car apps could reduce the need of phone mirroring services like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Many EV makers like Tesla, Rivian and GM don’t even include the ability to mirror your device and require you to subscribe to connectivity services inside the car.

Porsche will include 10 years of Porsche Connect service standard in each of these new vehicles to “optimize the digital user experience.” Part of that experience also includes Amazon Alexa, which in addition to Porsche’s Voice Pilot, can be used as the drivers’ digital voice assistant. Alexa can play music and podcasts, open your garage door, edit to-do and shopping lists and more. Porsche doesn’t say if this is the revamped AI-powered Alexa Plus that Amazon announced in February.

Porsche is also adding Dolby Atmos support with the new PCM system in models with premium audio equipment like Bose that can give occupants an immersive, spatial sound experience. 2026 Porsches can be ordered now and will arrive at US stores in “late summer 2025.”

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Scary AI-powered swarm robots team up to build cars faster than ever

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Scary AI-powered swarm robots team up to build cars faster than ever

The automotive industry is undergoing a seismic shift driven by the integration of AI-powered humanoid robots into production lines. UBTech Robotics, in collaboration with Zeekr, has pioneered a groundbreaking initiative where swarm robots work together to build cars faster and more efficiently than ever before. But is this technological advancement a leap toward innovation or a step closer to human replacement?

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UBTech’s Walker S1 robots operating in Zeekr’s 5G-enabled smart factory (UBTech Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The rise of swarm intelligence in manufacturing

Swarm Intelligence, inspired by collective behaviors in nature, is now being applied to robotics, enabling multiple humanoid robots to collaborate seamlessly on complex tasks. UBTech’s Walker S1 robots are at the forefront of this revolution, operating in Zeekr’s 5G-enabled smart factory. These robots are not just individual agents but part of a networked system that communicates and works in unison.

Scary AI-powered swarm robots team up to build cars faster than ever

UBTech’s Walker S1 robots operating in Zeekr’s 5G-enabled smart factory (UBTech Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

CREEPY HUMANOID ROBOT MOVES USING 1,000 EERIE ARTIFICIAL MUSCLES

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How it works

BrainNet framework: UBTech’s proprietary BrainNet software links cloud-based and on-device intelligence to form a “super brain” for high-level decision-making and a “sub-brain” for localized control.

Multimodal reasoning model: This AI engine allows robots to analyze, schedule and coordinate tasks autonomously, adapting to dynamic industrial environments.

Collaborative capabilities: From sorting and handling heavy loads to precision assembly, these robots excel in tasks requiring dexterity and real-time decision-making.

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Scary AI-powered swarm robots team up to build cars faster than ever

UBTech’s Walker S1 robots operating in Zeekr’s 5G-enabled smart factory (UBTech Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

CHINESE HUMANOID ROBOT LANDS WORLD’S FIRST FRONT FLIP

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Applications in automotive production

These AI-powered robots are revolutionizing car manufacturing in several key areas. Let’s take a closer look at how they’re changing the game.

Collaborative sorting

Using advanced vision-based perception and hybrid decision-making systems, Walker S1 robots optimize sorting tasks by dynamically tracking targets and sharing intelligence across the swarm.

Handling heavy loads

Robots face challenges like uneven load distribution and complex trajectories. UBTech’s joint planning system ensures stability and efficiency by enabling robots to adjust posture and force dynamically.

Precision assembly

In delicate tasks like handling deformable materials, Walker S1 robots utilize tactile sensing and adaptive control to ensure precision without damaging components. These capabilities have already been deployed in Zeekr’s factory for tasks ranging from quality inspection to vehicle assembly, showcasing unparalleled efficiency and accuracy.

Scary AI-powered swarm robots team up to build cars faster than ever

UBTech’s Walker S1 robots operating in Zeekr’s 5G-enabled smart factory (UBTech Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

CHINA LAUNCHES FACILITY TO TRAIN 100-PLUS HUMANOID ROBOTS SIMULTANEOUSLY

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Swarm intelligence: A game-changer

Swarm Intelligence is not just limited to automotive manufacturing. Its applications span logistics, healthcare, agriculture and more. By decentralizing decision-making and optimizing resource allocation, swarm systems promise increased scalability and adaptability across industries.

Scary AI-powered swarm robots team up to build cars faster than ever

UBTech’s Walker S1 robots operating in Zeekr’s 5G-enabled smart factory (UBTech Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The human factor: Innovation or replacement?

While the integration of humanoid robots offers numerous benefits, such as addressing labor shortages and enhancing production efficiency, it also raises concerns about job displacement. The question remains: How do we balance technological advancement with societal impact?

Experts argue that these innovations could complement human workers rather than replace them entirely. Robots can take over repetitive or hazardous tasks, allowing humans to focus on more creative and strategic roles. However, careful planning is essential to ensure a constructive transition.

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Scary AI-powered swarm robots team up to build cars faster than ever

UBTech’s Walker S1 robots operating in Zeekr’s 5G-enabled smart factory (UBTech Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The automotive industry is really changing, with AI-powered robots taking center stage. UBTech and Zeekr are showing us how these robots can work together to make manufacturing faster and smarter. But as we get excited about these advancements, we also need to think about how they’ll affect people’s jobs. Let’s hope we can find a way to make robots and humans work together seamlessly, rather than one replacing the other.

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As AI-powered robots increasingly take on complex tasks in car manufacturing, do you think the benefits of efficiency and precision outweigh the potential risks of job displacement, or are we trading human ingenuity for machine speed? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Google says its new ‘reasoning’ Gemini AI models are the best ones yet

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Google says its new ‘reasoning’ Gemini AI models are the best ones yet

After delivering a new “open” AI model with better performance on a single GPU, Google has now introduced an update to the AI models for its products with Gemini 2.5, which combines “a significantly enhanced base model with improved post-training” for better overall performance. It’s claiming that the first release, Gemini 2.5 Pro experimental, leads competition from OpenAI, Anthropic, xAI, and DeepSeek on common AI benchmarks that measure understanding, mathematics, coding, and other capabilities. The new model is available to access in Google AI Studio or for Gemini Advanced subscribers in the app’s model dropdown menu.

The company is also touting Gemini’s native multimodality as an advantage, as it’s able to interpret not just text, but also audio, still images, video, and code, and says that a 2 million token context window is “coming soon” to help it process more data. Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis called Gemini 2.5 Pro “an awesome state-of-the-art model, no.1 on LMArena by a whopping +39 ELO points, with significant improvements across the board in multimodal reasoning, coding & STEM,” in a post on X.

Google says it’s jumped forward in quality because Gemini models are now “reasoning” models that process tasks step-by-step and make more informed decisions, which they say results in better answers and responses for complex prompts. Now, the blog post reads, “…we’re building these thinking capabilities directly into all of our models, so they can handle more complex problems and support even more capable, context-aware agents.”

One demo video shows 2.5 Pro using those reasoning capabilities to program a video game based on a single prompt:

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