A space-age flying machine that aims to replace cars has been launched.

FlyNow Aviation's eCopter has successfully completed its first untethered flight.

The Austrian start-up will test a cargo version before releasing a passenger version they say should cost no more than a normal taxi ride.

The firm say their patented, counter-rotating rotor technology will deliver a power efficient ride with noise comparable to the sound level of a dishwasher.

A modular design would make production costs up to ten times lower than competing technologies.

FlyNow Aviation says their eCopter range will include one- and two-seater versions for personal transportation, as well as the cargo version with a 200 kg payload.

Other suggested applications might see dedicated firefighting and rescue models.

Yvonne Winter, Co-Founder and COO of FlyNow Aviation GmbH, said: "Every milestone brings us closer to making urban air mobility a reality for everyone. The successful untethered flight of our eCopter is not just a technical achievement — it's visible proof that our vision works."

"Many didn't take our tethered flights seriously, but seeing is believing. With this free flight, we've shown that FlyNow is ready to lift urban mobility off the ground."

The company hopes to launch commercial cargo operations by 2027.

They add: "Our ability to operate large fleets profitably, coupled with rapid certification readiness, positions FlyNow as a leader in the quickly evolving urban air mobility market."

"With these cutting-edge features, FlyNow is reshaping the way cities will handle air transportation, offering a cleaner, faster, and more sustainable alternative to traditional ground transportation."