Imagine a world where the roar of podracer engines isn’t confined to the fictional realm of Star Wars but becomes a reality in our own skies. The Airspeeder Mk3 and its groundbreaking electric flying drag race in 2020 already hinted at the potential for real-life podracing. Now, enter the stage a new contender: the Maca S11, a hydrogen-powered flying race car unveiled by the French startup Maca Flight at the 2022 CES.

This carcopter, a fusion of car and helicopter, is not just a sleek piece of futuristic design but a leap towards sustainable high-speed racing. Unlike its counterparts, the Maca S11 relies on a hydrogen fuel cell, promising not only speed but a commitment to green energy. Priced just over $900,000, it’s set to grace the racetrack with its presence in 2023, ushering in a new era of airborne competition.

Picture the S11 soaring through the skies, its three pairs of electric-powered rotors and six electric motors humming with the power of hydrogen. The clean-burning fuel cells not only provide longer flight times but also align with the growing emphasis on sustainability in the racing world. The 23-foot-long racer, with its metal chassis and a frame crafted from carbon, linen, and wood, resembles a flying F1 racer, complete with edgy aesthetics that scream speed.

Anticipate the adrenaline rush as the S11 pushes its expected top speed of 155 mph (250 kph), accommodating a lone pilot in its cockpit. But it’s not just about speed; the future is about intelligence too. The final product promises multiple AI-powered detection systems, ensuring a collision-free racing experience.

In a world where tradition is giving way to the modern, where every facet of life undergoes a radical transformation, could flying race cars be the next chapter in the century-long tradition of Formula 1? The Maca S11 certainly makes a compelling case, blending the thrill of speed with the promise of a greener, more sustainable racing future. Welcome to the podrace of the 21st century.

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