DeLorean, famous for its classic 80s sports car with gullwing doors, is making an unexpected return—not on roads, but as a key player in the emerging world of electric flying car racing. The brand will participate in the inaugural Airspeeder International Series, racing under the US banner starting November 2026.
- DeLorean sponsors the US team in first electric flying car races
- Competition aims to advance electric flight technology
- Partnerships with universities will fuel future race aircraft development
What happened
DeLorean is stepping back into the spotlight by sponsoring the US team in the Airspeeder International Series, the world's first championship for electric flying cars. This series will officially kick off in November 2026 and include teams from Australia, New Zealand, and Italy. Though DeLorean won't build the actual aircraft for the initial races, the US team’s flying cars will bear DeLorean branding and custom designs.
The vehicles used in the races are the Mk3C electric flying cars developed by Alauda Aeronautics in Australia. These compact machines weigh just 220 pounds uncrewed, feature a 96-kilowatt electric powertrain, and are capable of speeds over 75 mph. Pilots navigate complex three-dimensional courses equipped with virtual gates, offering a thrilling and innovative racing experience.
Why it feels good
This exciting new venture for DeLorean revives an iconic brand in an imaginative way, linking its innovative automotive heritage to the future of electric flight. The races are designed to drive technology forward in a manner similar to how Formula One has influenced passenger cars over the decades.
The Airspeeder series aims to catalyze advancements that could impact daily life, from urban commuting to emergency services, by pushing electric flying vehicles from concept to practical reality. Partnering with leading universities such as UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech on future aircraft design underscores the commitment to innovation and progress in sustainable transportation.
What to enjoy or watch next
The season beginning in November 2026 will be the first full championship, showcasing a new spectacle in motorsport with electric flying cars racing through aerial courses. Enthusiasts can look forward to watching highly skilled pilots maneuver these advanced vehicles in thrilling races that combine sport, technology, and futuristic excitement.
Beyond the races, DeLorean’s involvement signals potential upcoming developments, including future race aircraft co-designed with university partners and possibly even a modern flying DeLorean. While a new ground-based DMC-12 model remains in development, fans might see this legendary brand take to the skies before hitting the streets again.