The Jetsons’ Flying Car: A Vision of the Future
Episode 03: The Space Car
The Jetsons may not have invented the flying car, but they certainly cemented the idea of the airborne automobile in the American imagination. In the third episode of the original 1962-63 season, titled “The Space Car,” we get our first in-depth look at the cars of the future.
A Futuristic Vision
The episode opens with a sentient computer waking George from his slumber. The family gathers for breakfast, where George attempts to cook a meal with the push of a button. True to the comedic style of early TV sitcoms, George fails miserably.
Jane chats with her friend via videophone, and we’re introduced to two shady characters who create confusion with their cops and robbers antics. George and Jane decide to buy a new car and visit Molecular Motors, where they’re treated to a salesman’s pitch for the year 2062.
Flying Cars in Science Fiction
Long before The Jetsons, numerous flying cars had been predicted in science fiction. From the functional Aerocar of the 1950s to Hugo Gernsback’s 1923 vision of a two-wheeled flying car, the concept of airborne automobiles had captured the public’s imagination.
The Jetsons’ flying car montage was heavily influenced by the tone and style of Tex Avery’s “Of Tomorrow” cartoons. Avery’s irreverent humor dissected futuristic thinking, and many of the sight gags in “The Space Car” pay homage to this comedic style.
Inspiration from the Automotive Industry
The car companies themselves played a role in promoting the idea of radical automotive advancements. In 1959, Ford VPs touted flying cars as one of the innovations to come. Andrew A. Kucher, vice president of engineering and research, discussed the possibility of automatic guidance systems for flying automobiles.
Arthur Radebaugh’s syndicated comic “Closer Than We Think” also inspired The Jetsons’ vision of flying cars. In 1958, Radebaugh imagined cars that would ride on a cushion of air, an idea that Kucher eagerly promoted in the press.
A Reflection of Societal Beliefs
While “The Space Car” is primarily a comedic episode, it also reflects the societal beliefs and aspirations of its time. The episode reinforces the idea that men can’t cook, women can’t drive, and mother-in-laws are terrible. However, it also promotes the vision of a technologically advanced society.
Critical Reception and Cultural Impact
Unfortunately for The Jetsons, “The Space Car” aired on the same day as the tremendously popular “Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color.” Writer L.T. Anderson of the Gazette Mail criticized The Jetsons for its poor quality, while praising Disney’s programming.
Despite the negative reviews, The Jetsons had a significant impact on popular culture. Its depiction of flying cars and other futuristic technologies influenced subsequent generations and helped to shape our perception of the future.