BLUF
The ambitious project was abandoned in 2024 after struggling to keep pace with rapidly advancing Chinese competitors, technical challenges, and legal disputes. The case highlights growing competition and China’s dominance in emerging air-mobility technologies.Learning Outcomes
- Analyse the factors that influenced the success and failure of innovation projects by examining Volkswagen’s attempt to develop a flying car within China’s rapidly evolving low-altitude economy.
- Evaluate the strategic challenges of international partnerships and market competition, including the role of local expertise, technological capability, and changing industry dynamics.
- Assess the legal and intellectual property risks associated with global innovation and collaboration, particularly in emerging technology sectors.
