Florida wants to use cash meant for electric car chargers on flying cars instead

Florida had nearly $200 million to expand electric-vehicle charging, but the plan described in state documents obtained by the Miami Herald would redirect the money toward “flying cars.” Officials argue the private market already covers charging for “everyday vehicles,” while the state wants to fund an emerging technology not yet widely available: eVTOL aircraft sometimes marketed as flying taxis. The Florida Department of Transportation would create an “Aerial Highway Network” of charging, takeoff and landing pads, potentially at airports, luxury apartment buildings, golf courses and military bases. The state estimates each of 32 funded pads would cost $5.6 million, though locations aren’t specified. Critics, including Stephen Smith of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, say the funds risk benefiting wealthy stakeholders more than everyday drivers, whose needs are served by conventional charging. A separate coalition spokesperson says the money was originally intended to support gas stations and convenience retail.