Elon Musk’s flying car should fill us with wonder, not culture war cynicism

Flying cars have been a dream for 100 years, but Elon Musk's flying car prototype, the Roadster, seems to have sparked little excitement, writes Anna Moloney. An article from Illustrated World, 1917, predicted that "aeroautocraft" would travel streets or roads, cross streams or lakes, and fly over hills, valleys, or woods at the owner's pleasure.

The gleaming illustration of a red car with eagle-like wings showcased technological optimism. However, Musk's flying car prototype, which uses SpaceX thrusters to propel itself into the air and even perform flips, has received largely muted reactions. Critics question its road safety and relevance, focusing on the political leanings of its maker.

The author argues that technological progress has become intertwined with politics and celebrity, diminishing the sense of wonder. Despite Musk's faults, the author urges readers not to let his influence dampen their excitement for flying cars and other imaginative feats.