The world's first flying car is set to go on the market with pre-sales scheduled to begin next month.

The first of the two-seat hybrid-electric vehicles, which can switch between driving and flying modes in less than a minute, will be delivered to customers next year.

According to manufacturer Terrafugia, which belongs to the parent company of Volvo, the Transition can fly up to 400 miles (640km) at top speeds of 100mph (160kmh).

The price has not yet been determined but preliminary sales for the first of the pioneering models will begin in October, according to China's news agency Xinhua.

According to manufacturer Terrafugia, which belongs to Volvo, the Transition can fly up to 400 miles at top speeds of 100 mph. Pictured: a test flight of the Transition

Recent improvements to the vehicle have included a hybrid-electric motor, upgraded seats, more luggage storage, improved seat belts and airbags, the company said.

The vehicle has also been fitted with rear-view cameras and a new parachute system, as well as 'boost' mode, which gives 'a brief burst of extra power while flying'.

It was certified as a Light Sport Aircraft by the Federal Aviation Administration in 2016.

The vehicle also meets National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration standards but consumers will need a pilot's license to operate the Transition.

The company believes Transition could be a useful vehicle for pilots to land at small airports and drive straight home.

The aircraft has fold-out wings, weighing roughly 1,300 pounds, and has fixed landing gear. It can fly to a maximum altitude of 10,000 feet.

The Transition on land. The first of the two-seat hybrid-electric vehicles, which can switch between driving and flying modes in less than a minute, will be delivered next year

The TF-X, a planned four-person follow-up, will be computer-controlled so that passengers can type in a destination before taking off.

'The TF-X won't require an airport for takeoff and landing, and it will drive on all roads and highways - providing the convenience of true door-to-door transportation,' the company said.

The company's CEO Chris Jaran said in July: 'Developing this new technology has allowed us to test several different mechanisms and generate process improvements along the way.

'We are at the critical point where we can implement the best design features based on years of flight and drive testing.

'This will improve function, safety and aesthetics for the optimal flying and driving experience.'

An artist's rendering of the vehicle on road. The vehicle also meets National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration standards but consumers will need a pilot's license to operate it