DeLorean to Compete in Airspeeder eVTOL Racing Series
The brand will field a spec Mk3C chassis initially, with plans for a custom eVTOL designed by student teams in 2027.
DeLorean, the iconic stainless-steel automotive brand, is entering the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) racing scene. The company announced it will campaign a DeLorean-branded eVTOL in the Airspeeder racing series, marking a significant pivot for the brand best known for its 1980s sportscar.
What Happened
DeLorean will race a spec Airspeeder Mk3C chassis, similar to other entrants in the series. Looking ahead to the 2027-28 season, the company reportedly plans to collaborate with student engineering teams from UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech to design an all-new eVTOL racer. Airspeeder Founder and CEO Matt Pearson stated that having an "American icon" on the grid defines the direction of the sport.
Why It Matters
This development carries ironic weight for Tesla enthusiasts, as Elon Musk has frequently cited the DeLorean time machine from "Back to the Future" as inspiration for Tesla designs, including the Model X's falcon-wing doors and the Cybertruck's stainless steel finish. The announcement coincides with the expected debut of the Tesla Roadster 2.0's hovering technology, positioning DeLorean’s racing entry as a symbolic moment in the broader narrative of electric flying vehicles. While the source notes it is unclear if the team is more than a PR stunt, the involvement of major engineering universities adds a layer of technical seriousness to the endeavor.
The Bottom Line
DeLorean is leveraging its brand heritage to enter competitive eVTOL racing with a spec chassis before moving to a custom design in 2027. The move highlights the growing intersection of legacy automotive branding and emerging aviation technology.
