Humanity is set to enter a new era of transport as a flying car could go on sale next year. The BlackFly airborne vehicle was unveiled by maker Opener in California on Thursday. It is the brainchild of Google co-founder Larry Page. BlackFly's designers say it can travel for up to 40km at a speed of 100kph. It will eventually cost the same as a typical sports-utility car. The vehicle has been tested in Canada, which has authorized its use. Even though it will take to the skies, drivers (or pilots) will not need a pilot's license to get behind the controls. However, BlackFly operators will have to successfully complete a pilot's written examination and receive training in how to use the vehicle.

Critics say the term "car" is somewhat of a misnomer as it has no wheels and cannot be driven on roads. A more accurate description would be a person-carrying drone. The vehicle can only carry one person and is powered by eight propellers – four at the front of the car and four at the back. Company CEO Marcus Leng said: "Opener is re-energizing the art of flight with a safe and affordable flying vehicle that can free its operators from the everyday restrictions of ground transportation." A former vice-president of knowledge at Google said the age of personal flight could be arriving with BlackFly. He said: "I've noticed in my career that things go from impossible to inevitable in a very short period of time."