Now here's a motoring idea that just might take off - a car that can fly.

The Transition from US-based Terrafugia is a road vehicle that can sprout wings and soar off into the blue yonder.

At a touch of a button, the four-wheeled car extends a pair of wings either side of its main body.

It is then a case of getting permission for take-off from a control tower and launching into the sky - the perfect way to beat traffic gridlock.

Terrafugia - which means escape from the earth - are offering high-flyers the chance to get in on ground level with the Transition for the down-to-earth pre-order sum of £74,000.

Prospective owners will require both a driving and flying licence and the ability to wait until December 2008 - when the company says the first models will be available.

And they have no shortage of willing buyers.

Chief operating officer, Anna Mracek Dietrich, said: "It will take just a few seconds to transform and will be fully automated after the command is given in the cockpit.

"We're currently sold out for at least the first year, approaching the first two of production."

The prototype runs on super unleaded petrol and can cruise at 120mph.

It's clear the Transition will make your journey fly by.

MUST CREDIT PHOTOS BY
Terrafugia Inc/Benjamin Schweighart/Rex Features