Results for: skai
JAXA Hornisse
Quick SummaryThe JAXA (Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency) Hornisse is a ducted fan craft that is currently being tested at sub-scale model sizes to validate the concept before moving on to larger scale variants. The aircraft pictured is a rendering of a proposed eVTOL aircraft by JAXA, and is not the Hornisse sub-scale test bed.CompanyCEOProduct NameJapanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)Dr. Naoki...

JAXA Hornisse

Quick Summary
The JAXA (Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency) Hornisse is a ducted fan craft that is currently being tested at sub-scale model sizes to validate the concept before moving on to larger scale variants. The aircraft pictured is a rendering of a proposed eVTOL aircraft by JAXA, and is not the Hornisse sub-scale test bed.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
The sub-scale test aircraft named the Hornisse (which means Hornet) has the following dimensions:
Aircraft Type: Intercity VTOL with fixed wing
Powerplant: undisclosed
Range: undisclosed
Top Speed: undisclosed
Propeller Configuration: 2 rotors, undisclosed diameter
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 0 (for scale prototype)
Autonomy Level: Semi-Autonomous (assumed, undisclosed)
Wingspan/Dimensions: 1.98m x 2.3m x 0.5m
Our Take on JAXA's eVTOL and Hornisse
JAXA's eVTOL concept and the Hornisse proof-of-concept sub-scale model are backed by an agency that had a budget of $2 Billion in 2013. Despite the large resource pool for JAXA, all testing to date thus far has occurred on small scale prototypes. Look to additional flight tests as indicators of further progress of the company, which has fallen silent in 2020.
Flexcraft
Quick SummaryThe Flexcraft is an eVTOL being built by the Lisbon, Portugal based Flexcraft consortium. Testing of the aircraft was slated to begin in November of 2019, but does not appear to have begun yet.CompanyProduct NameFlexcraft, a consortium based in Lisbon, PortugalFlexcraftStage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype BuildFlight TestingCertificationCommercially OperatingTechnical DetailsAircraft Type: VTOL with fixed wing Powerplant: Hybrid Electric Turbofan Range: 575...

Flexcraft

Quick Summary
The Flexcraft is an eVTOL being built by the Lisbon, Portugal based Flexcraft consortium. Testing of the aircraft was slated to begin in November of 2019, but does not appear to have begun yet.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Our Take on Flexcraft
Flexcraft is an eVTOL in work by a consortium of companies in based in Lisbon, Portugal. According to their production schedule, the consortium should be in the midst of finalizing the design of their aircraft and beginning production of the first prototype. Flexcraft's last major appearance was at the Paris Air Show in 2019. Since its last update, Flexcraft has not begun flight testing or released any public information on a first flight date.
References
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September 24, 2023Hopflyt Venturi
Quick SummaryThe Hopflyt Venturi is a craft designed to become the leading mobility source for any journey under 200 miles, according to the Hopflyt website. It uses advanced aerodynamics principles (detailed in the Technical Specifications section) for improved performance.CompanyCEOProduct NameHopFlyt, a Lusby, MD, USA companyRob WinstonVenturiStage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype BuildFlight TestingCertificationCommercially OperatingTechnical DetailsFrom the HopFlyt Website: Advanced Aerodynamic Design Utilizing...

Hopflyt Venturi

Quick Summary
The Hopflyt Venturi is a craft designed to become the leading mobility source for any journey under 200 miles, according to the Hopflyt website. It uses advanced aerodynamics principles (detailed in the Technical Specifications section) for improved performance.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
From the HopFlyt Website:
Advanced Aerodynamic Design
Utilizing a canard style design, the Venturi results in higher safety & a smoother ride experience for the passengers and the pilot alike. The wings tilt up for takeoff & landing, tilt down for forward flight and vary their angle while flying; hence "variable incidence."By using variable incidence wings & canards with channels, Venturi achieves wing-borne lift while hovering, which significantly reduces its battery power consumption. Combining these technologies with DEP reduces mechanical complexity by removing traditional flight control surfaces (i.e. ailerons, elevators, rudder and flaps). This reduces weight, improves reliability and reduces maintenance while allowing the aircraft to takeoff and land vertically. Wings and canards can vary angle in-flight and improve ride quality by keeping the fuselage at a level attitude during all phases of flight. The powered channel wing design creates high levels of lift by efficiently accelerating air over the wing resulting in longer battery life. While the contra-rotating propellers produce more thrust and reduce noise. Control of the Venturi is provided by Distributed Electrical Propulsion (DEP) and the independently variable incidence wings and canards.
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: VTOL, moveable wing
Powerplant: electric ducted fans
Range: 100 nm
Top Speed: 120 knots
Propeller Configuration: 6 ducted fan rotors (final configuration has 8 venturi "channels")
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 4 pax, 1800lb MTOW
Autonomy Level: Semi-autonomous
Wingspan/Dimensions: 24 ft x 26 ft
Our Take on HopFlyt
HopFlyt has a unique approach to creating their eVTOL from an aerodynamic standpoint - using power channels in the wings that aid in acceleration of flow in and around the propulsors of the aircraft - combined with a variable incidence angle wing to facilitate vertical takeoff and landing in addition to accelerated forward flight. The company has substantial experience in flight testing, has engineers from NASA, and an array of other resources. Subscale model testing has progressed, but no reports of their testing of a full scale prototype have emerged as of Q3 2020.
References
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September 24, 2023DIGI Droxi
Quick SummaryThe DIGI Droxi is being developed in Dubai, UAE by DIGI Drones, which is scaling its experience with smaller drone technologies to a passenger-carrying variant.CompanyProduct NameDIGI Robotics, based in DubaiDroxiStage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype BuildFlight TestingCertificationCommercially OperatingTechnical DetailsAircraft Type: VTOL with Fixed Wing, Intercity Powerplant: 58kW Electric Engines Range: 270 nm Top Speed: 109 mph Propeller Configuration: 6 tilting motors...

DIGI Droxi

Quick Summary
The DIGI Droxi is being developed in Dubai, UAE by DIGI Drones, which is scaling its experience with smaller drone technologies to a passenger-carrying variant.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Our Take on DIGI
DIGI has extensive experience in the unmanned vehicle field - but not much in aerospace. The biggest hurdle for DIGI to overcome in order to bring their Droxi Air Taxi to market is the aerospace expertise required to design a smart solution to the eVTOL problem. DIGI has the resources and infrastructure in place for manufacturing advanced vehicles; this process must be shifted toward the flight space.
References
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September 24, 2023DeLorean Aerospace DR7
Quick SummaryThe DeLorean Aerospace DR7 is being developed by Paul DeLorean in Laguna Beach, CA. The DR7 features a futuristic monocoque fuselage design coupled with ducted fans for propulsion.CompanyCEOProduct NameDelorean Aerospace, based in Laguna Beach, CA, USAPaul DeLoreanDR7Stage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype BuildFlight TestingCertificationCommercially OperatingTechnical DetailsThere are no technical details released on the DR7 at this time, but from their website:...

DeLorean Aerospace DR7

Quick Summary
The DeLorean Aerospace DR7 is being developed by Paul DeLorean in Laguna Beach, CA. The DR7 features a futuristic monocoque fuselage design coupled with ducted fans for propulsion.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
There are no technical details released on the DR7 at this time, but from their website:
Mission
To bring the freedom and exhilaration of personal air transportation to the masses. With superior design and engineering, our advanced architecture provides a practical, elegant, and extremely safe alternative to conventional aircraft, with airport-free convenience.
Vision
For generations we have been promised a future of exciting options for sky travel, yet in the past century aircraft designs have changed little, with the best choices far out of reach for all but a select few military aviators or the extremely wealthy. At DeLorean Aerospace, we are actualizing the dream of practical and accessible air mobility with our DR-7 aircraft.
Technology
From DeLorean's product overview: Today, we have prioritized resource conservation and air quality over reducing road congestion and commute times... why not do both? Pairing a zero-emission modern electric power system with a lightweight yet highly stable platform, the vehicle that was once only of dreams - fast, efficient, and simple to operate, is finally becoming a reality.
Innovations
The DR-7 has been designed with a number of unique technologies for improved safety and overall functionality. With an industry-first centerline twin vectoring propulsion system, stall-resistant canard design, and multiple patent-pending features, our aircraft is intrinsically safer. With an incredibly low drag coefficient, the DR-7 maximizes range under fully electric power. We have been issued U.S. patent #9,085,355, and have additional domestic and foreign patents pending.
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Intercity VTOL, fixed wing
Powerplant: electric ducted fans (assumed)
Range: undisclosed
Top Speed: undisclosed
Propeller Configuration: 2 rotating electric ducted fans
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 1 passenger
Autonomy Level: Semi-Autonomous
Wingspan/Dimensions: undisclosed
Our Take on the DR7
DeLorean Aerospace has a sleek concept with a reasonable estimate of the amount of work required to successfully bring it to market. Their biggest benchmark of success will be continued flight testing and refining of their 1/3rd scale proof of concept model. Check back in for updates on the progression of model testing and a possible announcement that DeLorean has begun design and build work on its full-size model.
References
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September 24, 2023Hoversurf Formula
Quick SummaryThe Hoversurf Formula is an eVTOL that uses fold-out wings to facilitate forward flight, and sixteen vertically mounted ducted fans which swivel to provide either vertical or forward propulsion. The claimed entry level price is $97,000. The company's website names the Formula as a "lift and cruise type design", claiming that this type of aircraft is much more efficient than...

Hoversurf Formula

Quick Summary
The Hoversurf Formula is an eVTOL that uses fold-out wings to facilitate forward flight, and sixteen vertically mounted ducted fans which swivel to provide either vertical or forward propulsion. The claimed entry level price is $97,000. The company's website names the Formula as a "lift and cruise type design", claiming that this type of aircraft is much more efficient than multi-rotor and much safer than tilt-wing.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Winged VTOL
Powerplant: Free-piston engine (FPE) Venturi engine
Range: 186 miles / 300 km
Top Speed: 155 mph / 250 km/h
Propeller Configuration: Two rows of four fans (16 total) on either side forward and aft of the passenger compartment provide lift. Two larger pusher fans behind the passengers are for forward thrust in cruise mode.
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 4 passengers (plus one partial pilot)
Autonomy Level: Piloted with Autonomous Capability
Wingspan/Dimensions: n/a
Other Information
In addition to the prototype, models of Formula TWO and FOUR are in development, which will transport 2 or 4 passengers respectively.
From the Hoversurf website:
FORMULA is neither a copter nor an airplane. It combines the best aspects from both of them.
Unlike other S/VTOL, these systems work independently of each other. In most S/VTOL’s, the propellers rotate to move from vertical takeoff to airplane mode - this is their main problem. This has caused 90% of the accidents of the famous V-22 Osprey. Our engineers have solved this problem. If the wings break off, FORMULA can still safely land. If 50% of the turbines malfunction, FORMULA can still safely land.
Our Take on the Formula
The Hoversurf Formula has the elements of a successful eVTOL design, but not much news has been made about its progress since 2018 when it flew the first unmanned scale prototype. However, Hoversurf has had great success with its Hoverbike, which is now on sale in several countries. Ideally, progress with the Hoverbike will continue to generate momentum to carry into design and production of the Formula.
References
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Cyclorotor Conducts First Flight of Unique Unmanned Aircraft Configuration
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September 24, 2023FAA authorizes Zipline for initial BVLOS drone operations
September 24, 2023ASX MOBi-ONE
Quick SummaryThe Airspace MOBi One is targeted for deployment in 2025 and should match the cost of an UberX Ride at that point. The MOBi One features a variable angle of attack wing that has 6 rotors mounted on it for propulsion, in addition to a seventh rotor on the empennage of the VTOL.CompanyCEOProduct NameASX (AirSpaceX, based in Detroit, Michigan,...

ASX MOBi-ONE

Quick Summary
The Airspace MOBi One is targeted for deployment in 2025 and should match the cost of an UberX Ride at that point. The MOBi One features a variable angle of attack wing that has 6 rotors mounted on it for propulsion, in addition to a seventh rotor on the empennage of the VTOL.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Winged eVTOL
Powerplant: All-Electric or Hybrid-Electric
Range: 65 miles (All-Electric), 260 miles (Hybrid-Electric)
Top Speed: 300 mph
Propeller Configuration: 6 rotors mounted on tilt-wing, 1 rotor on the empennage of the VTOL
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 4 passengers
Autonomy Level: Piloted w/ Semi-Autonomy
Wingspan/Dimensions: 40 ft / 30 ft x 10 ft
Other Information
From the ASX website:
Efficient
10x more efficient due to fixed wing and distributed electric motors
Connected
Features broad band connectivity for high speed internet access, and V2X collision avoidance and safety messaging.
Quiet
Electric motors with low-noise, low-tip speed prop-rotors
Eco-Friendly
All electric, zero operational emissions with fuel cell range extension
Our Take on the MOBi One
AirspaceX has a solid design lined up for their MOBi One, and a follow up MOBi 2025 concept that integrates with "pods" that are picked up and dropped off by the flight system of the eVTOL. The MOBi One closely resembles the Dufour Aerospace aEro2 in appearance. No planned flight tests have been announced at this time, but the company's goal of achieving market deployment by 2025 means that their development plan must be fairly ambitious and fast-paced. Notably, ASX has recently partnered with VerdeGo to use their propulsion systems
References
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Cyclorotor Conducts First Flight of Unique Unmanned Aircraft Configuration
September 25, 2023VoltAero Achieves Milestone Flight with Sustainable Aviation Fuel
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September 24, 2023FAA authorizes Zipline for initial BVLOS drone operations
September 24, 2023AeroMobil 4.0 STOL
Quick SummaryThe AeroMobil 4.0 STOL is AeroMobil's final STOL concept before the company moves to designing and building its 5.0 VTOL concept. Bratislava, Slovakia based AeroMobil is also currently testing its 3.0 STOL.CompanyCEOProduct NameAeroMobil, based in Bratislava, SlovakiaPatrick Hessel4.0 STOLStage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype BuildFlight TestingCertificationCommercially OperatingTechnical DetailsAircraft Type: Roadable STOL Powerplant: Automotive gasoline combustion Range: 466 miles Top Speed: 223 mph Propeller Configuration: 1 rear...

AeroMobil 4.0 STOL

Quick Summary
The AeroMobil 4.0 STOL is AeroMobil's final STOL concept before the company moves to designing and building its 5.0 VTOL concept. Bratislava, Slovakia based AeroMobil is also currently testing its 3.0 STOL.
AeroMobil, based in Bratislava, Slovakia
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Roadable STOL
Powerplant: Automotive gasoline combustion
Range: 466 miles
Top Speed: 223 mph
Propeller Configuration: 1 rear pusher propeller
Passenger/Payload Capacity: Two-seater
Autonomy Level: Pilot-assistance
Dimensions: 29 ft wingspan, 19 ft length, 4.6 ft height
Other Information:
Size/Capacity/Weight:
- Automotive Dimensions – 5.9 m (L), 2.2 m (W), 1.5 m (H)
- Aerospace Dimensions – 5.8 m (L), 8.8 m (WS), 1.4 m (H)
- Max Take Off Weight – 960 kg (useable load 240 kg)
Power:
- AeroMobil custom 2.0 l turbo charged 4-cylinder boxer ICE.
- Dedicated electric front wheel drive system incorporating electronic differential.
- Adaptive transmission delivering both road-going functionality and direct drive during the flight.
- Automotive Power – 80 kW (110 BHP) via twin E Motors
- Aerospace Power – 224 kW (300 BHP) via Turbo charged ICE (Euro 6)
- Direct Drive variable pitch propeller (speed 2 400 rpm)
- Overall Power plant weight 110 kg
Operating Range:
- Automotive Range (estimated using NEDC cycle) 4.2 l / 100 km
- Aerospace Max Cruise Range ~750 km @ 75 % (1 200 m, ISA)
- Fuel Capacity 90 ltr (95 RON Gasoline)
Performance:
- Automotive – Top speed 160 kph, 0-100 kph 10 sec.
- Aerospace – Vs / Vc / VD – 112 / 259 / 360 km/h
- MTOW Take Off Distance ground roll / 50 ft – 397 / 595 m
Safety:
- Airframe Parachute System
- Occupant Restraint Systems – Airbags, Pyrotechnic Load limiting seat belts.
- Integral Carbon Fiber Structure & Occupant cell.
- Autonomous Flight via current autopilot technology (optional)
Key Features:
- Full transformation into flight mode in less than 3 minutes.
- Adaptive Flight control surfaces and vehicle suspension for optimal take-off and landing.
- Advanced controls and avionics in both Fly and Drive mode.
Certification Basis:
- Automotive: EWVTA / M1 (EU) & 49 CFR 571 (US)
- Aerospace: CS 23 Rev 5/ELA 1 (EU) & 14 CFR 23 Rev 5 (US)
Wheels:
- Wheels Wheel and tyre size front: 165 / 65 / R15 on 15jx6 rim
- Wheel and tyre size rear: 145 / 65 / R15 on 15jx4.5 rim
Our Take on the AeroMobil 4.0 STOL
AeroMobil's 4.0 STOL concept is very defined, as the construction of AeroMobil's website shows. However, no target first flight date has been set yet, and the AeroMobil team is still completing testing of their 3.0 STOL prototype. The company is already accepting orders for the 4.0, and intends on utilizing lessons learned from the 4.0 to roll into their VTOL aircraft, the AeroMobil 5.0. Monitor the developments of the 4.0 STOL for a good measure of how successful the company will be moving forward.
References
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September 24, 2023AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL
Quick SummaryThe AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL is being developed in the "Detroit of Slovakia" by Mr. Juraj Vaculík and his AeroMobil team. The 5.0 VTOL advances the company's 4.0 STOL design.CompanyCEOProduct NameAeroMobil, based in Bratislava, SlovakiaMr. Juraj Vaculík5.0 VTOLStage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype BuildFlight TestingCertificationCommercially OperatingTechnical Details Aircraft Type: Roadable VTOL with fixed-wing flight Powerplant: Rotax 912 four cylinder aircraft engine Range: 435 miles Top...

AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL

Quick Summary
The AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL is being developed in the "Detroit of Slovakia" by Mr. Juraj Vaculík and his AeroMobil team. The 5.0 VTOL advances the company's 4.0 STOL design.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Roadable VTOL with fixed-wing flight
Powerplant: Rotax 912 four cylinder aircraft engine
Range: 435 miles
Top Speed: Undisclosed
Propeller Configuration: Two large electrically-driven wingtip lift and thrust rotors
Passenger/Payload Capacity: Four-seater
Autonomy Level: Undisclosed
Dimensions: Undisclosed
Other Information
The AeroMobil press release announcing the 5.0 VTOL:
AeroMobil, an advanced engineering company, today announced the extension of its planned product range with the launch of the AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) concept for shared mobility. Together with the AeroMobil 4.0 STOL (short take-off and landing capability), the company solves the first-to-last mile of personal air transportation, because users are able to switch smoothly between flight and driving mode.
“The multi-product strategy means we can provide urban travel with the AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL and intra-city travel with the AeroMobil 4.0 STOL. Our strategy solves the limitations of alternative VTOL concepts which are tied to dedicated landing pods rather than also using the existing road infrastructure,” said Juraj Vaculik, co-founder and CEO of AeroMobil.
The AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL concept has two electrically driven rotors to ensure safe vertical take-off with horizontal thrust being provided by an electric powered rear mounted pusher propeller. It will seat four passengers providing similar comfort and user experience as next generation electric vehicles. Each occupant will have access to a personalised inflight experience, with flight or drive data and advanced communications and media to ensure occupants stay connected while in the air or on the road.
AeroMobil’s international engineering team has more than 400 years of cumulative experience in the automotive and aerospace industries. The team has been able to develop the AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL concept and AeroMobil 4.0 STOL to meet the varied needs of private usage and future flying taxi operators. The AeroMobil 4.0 STOL is currently in the testing phase of the development and delivers efficient intra-city travel up to 700 km range, which is more than double that of most of electric VTOL passenger drone concepts due to much higher energy efficiency.
“We see flying cars as versatile vehicles that both fly and drive, which is what we will be able to offer with the AeroMobil 4.0 STOL and AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL concept. We plan to deliver the vehicles with the range needed for urban and intra-urban journeys, allowing customers to travel in any weather conditions while maximising the efficiency for flying taxi operators.” - said Douglas MacAndrew, CTO of AeroMobil.
Production of the AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL model will follow the AeroMobil 4.0 STOL roll-out which will be available in a limited series to private owners around the world in 2020. The company expects the AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL concept to be available within the next seven to ten years, in line with the reality of building and scaling the infrastructure and regulation for such innovative personal transportation.
“AeroMobil 4.0 STOL uses several patented technologies, a highly innovative combustion engine and has the benefit of using existing aerospace and automotive technology, combined in a unique way, thus achieving far greater energy efficiency, speed and range than any electric VTOL. It is also designed within existing regulation, hence enabling much sooner go-to-market in 2020 than the electric VTOL category, which in general is being mooted as ready for shipment in 2025”. – said Patrick Hessel, Chairman, AeroMobil.
The AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL conceptual design will maintain AeroMobil’s high standards for comfort and safety from the AeroMobil 4.0 STOL, which in flight mode, will be among the first flying vehicles with airbags, a frontal automotive vehicle crash structure and a parachute. Based on similar design language, it will have an instantly recognisable silhouette, with a modern and desirable exterior with a comparable footprint to a regular car.
Key Features of AeroMobil 5.0 VTOL
- Vertical take-off and lift assistance motors on the tips of the wings for expanded flight performance and quality
- Adaptive wings that ensure maximum efficiency in flight, improving safety and maximising electric range
- Rear extension and control surface for enhanced flight control, stability and in-flight comfort
- Adaptive suspension geometry for smooth landing and take-off improving occupant comfort
- Battery package and drivetrain optimisation for fleet use to maximise utilisation in both urban and inter-urban use cases
Our Take on the AeroMobil 5.0
AeroMobil is currently a very busy company - they're concurrently completing testing on their 3.0 STOL, working on designing and building their 4.0 STOL, and planning for ultimate implementation of the 5.0 VTOL. Although the company has a decent pool of resources, the 5.0 VTOL is still quite far down the design pipeline as the 4.0 STOL will most likely require almost all of AeroMobil's current resources. Monitor the 4.0 STOL's progress as a good barometer for the 5.0 VTOL's future success.
References
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Cyclorotor Conducts First Flight of Unique Unmanned Aircraft Configuration
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September 24, 2023FAA authorizes Zipline for initial BVLOS drone operations
September 24, 2023Airbus CityAirbus
Quick SummaryThe Airbus CityAirbus is the long view approach from the commercial aircraft giant to produce a streamlined passenger air taxi for use around congested urban areas. Airbus formerly created the A^3 Ventures Vahana aircraft as an eVTOL technology demonstrator, and has now moved on to continuing development of the CityAirbus.CompanyCEOProduct NameAirbus, a Cologne, France CompanyTom EndersCityAirbusStage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype...

Airbus CityAirbus

Quick Summary
The Airbus CityAirbus is the long view approach from the commercial aircraft giant to produce a streamlined passenger air taxi for use around congested urban areas. Airbus formerly created the A^3 Ventures Vahana aircraft as an eVTOL technology demonstrator, and has now moved on to continuing development of the CityAirbus.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Wingless eVTOL, Intracity
Powerplant: All-Electric
Range: 60 miles
Top Speed: 75 mph
Propeller Configuration: 8 lift/thrust rotors (4 dual rotors)
Passenger Capacity: 4 passengers
Autonomy Level: Autonomous
Dimensions: 9ft propellor diameter, 26 ft length
Other Information
The flyer below is posted on the Airbus CityAirbus official site as the full technical specifications for the aircraft:

Our Take on the CityAirbus
Airbus has been working separately on multiple approaches to aerial mobility including the A^3 Vahana and Pop.Up Next, but appears to be giving the most focus to the CityAirbus. Notably, the CityAirbus completed its first successful full-scale test flight in May of 2019, and its first fully autonomous test flight in August of 2020. Although Airbus' vast resources in aviation and multiple aircraft concepts spell success for the company in aerial mobility, Airbus is not one of the parters for the Uber Elevate operator network. This means Airbus will either have to build its own operations platform or find another operator company for its aircraft.
References
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Cyclorotor Conducts First Flight of Unique Unmanned Aircraft Configuration
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September 24, 2023FAA authorizes Zipline for initial BVLOS drone operations
September 24, 2023PopUp.Next
Quick SummaryThe PopUp.Next is designed by Italdesign, and is under development in collaboration with Airbus and Audi. Audi is responsible for designing the ground maneuvering system and Airbus is designing the electric-powered lifting module and detachable pod of the aircraft.CompanyProduct NameCEOThree companies are involved: Italdesign, Audi, and AirbusPop.Up NextItaldesign: Jörg Astalosch Audi: Markus Duesmann Airbus: Guillaume Faury (Airbus Group); Mark...

PopUp.Next

Quick Summary
The PopUp.Next is designed by Italdesign, and is under development in collaboration with Airbus and Audi. Audi is responsible for designing the ground maneuvering system and Airbus is designing the electric-powered lifting module and detachable pod of the aircraft.
Italdesign: Jörg Astalosch
Audi: Markus Duesmann
Airbus: Guillaume Faury (Airbus Group); Mark Cousin (Acubed innovation center, formerly A^3)
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Roadable VTOL
Powerplant: All-Electric
Range: 31 miles (without payload)
Top Speed: 93 mph
Propeller Configuration: 8 propellers (4 + 4)
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 2 Passengers
Autonomy Level: Autonomous/remote pilot
Dimensions: 14.5 ft L x 2.75 ft H x 16.5 ft W (self-flying air module)
Other Information:
Battery: 70 kWh
Charge Time: 15 minutes
From the Italdesign website:
Pop.Up Next reflects the philosophy driving Italdesign’s 50th anniversary celebrations, anticipating the challenges that the next fifty years will bring. It represents a vision of the potential offered by future technologies, the new concept of transportation and the new solutions for resolving the problems linked to city planning and traffic in large urban centres that are increasingly becoming one of the priority aspects for safeguarding our planet. Next is evidence of the success achieved by Pop.Up over the past year amongst the main players in the transportation world, the municipalities and institutions worldwide.
As the 2017 original project, the Pop.Up Next system aims to give time back to commuters, freeing them from the need to drive, through a flexible, shared and adaptable new way of moving within cities introducing a new user-focused transportation system concept.
Pop.Up combines the flexibility of a small two seater ground vehicle with the freedom and speed of a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) air vehicle, thus bridging the automotive and aerospace domains. The core of the product is therefore the Intermodality and making it modular.
Our Take on the Pop.Up Next
The Pop.Up Next had significant momentum prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and had been authorized to be tested in Ingolstadt, Germany (read TransportUP's coverage of the approval here). However, a large amount of coordination between companies must occur if a prototype is to be delivered on schedule, on budget, safely.
Airbus is strongly committed to the future development of Urban Air Mobility, and is wisely leveraging expertise among various transportation sectors. Italdesign will drive this project further in the future, thus confirming more and more its new function as a hub and an incubator for ideas and innovative services for mobility. The PopUp.Next was originally scheduled to take flight in 2020, but plans have seemingly been delayed with no published date for a revised first flight demonstration.
References
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September 24, 2023Ray Civil VTOL Aircraft
Quick SummaryThe Ray Civil VTOL Aircraft is being developed by Ray Research AG in Muttenz, Switzerland. The "Ray" VTOL is named such because it resembles a Manta Ray, and features two ducted fans at the rear of the craft for propulsion and two in each wing for additional power. Recently, the company has competed in Boeing's GoFly competition and helped...

Ray Civil VTOL Aircraft

Quick Summary
The Ray Civil VTOL Aircraft is being developed by Ray Research AG in Muttenz, Switzerland. The "Ray" VTOL is named such because it resembles a Manta Ray, and features two ducted fans at the rear of the craft for propulsion and two in each wing for additional power. Recently, the company has competed in Boeing's GoFly competition and helped to develop the Dart Flyer, a single person tailsitter VTOL.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Winged VTOL
Powerplant: Hybrid-Electric
Range: 1120 miles
Top Speed: 224 mph
Propeller Configuration: 2 Pratt and Whitney PW210 engines (800 shp), 6 electric motor/propeller assemblies.
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 4 Passengers + 1 Pilot
Autonomy Level: Piloted
Wingspan/Dimensions:
Our Take on Ray Research
The blended wing body (BWB) design of the Ray Research VTOL is becoming increasingly popular among futuristic aerospace design concepts as it minimizes drag, yet requires unique manufacturing challenges. Since 2015, no updates or prototypes from Ray's Civil VTOL Aircraft have been released.
References
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September 24, 2023FlytCycle
Quick SummaryThe FlytCycle was originally developed and tested in 2017, is the proof-of-concept prototype for Flyt Aerospace's upcoming Red Hummingbird aircraft. The FlytCycle features 12 electric motors each with a single propellor, and has been exhibited at the 2019 Webit tech festival in Europe.CompanyUse CasesFlyt AerospaceAir-Terrain-Vehicle, recreational or militaryStage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype BuildFlight TestingCertificationCommercially OperatingTechnical DetailsAircraft Type: Wingless VTOL Powerplant: All-electric Range: 10-15...

FlytCycle

Quick Summary
The FlytCycle was originally developed and tested in 2017, is the proof-of-concept prototype for Flyt Aerospace's upcoming Red Hummingbird aircraft. The FlytCycle features 12 electric motors each with a single propellor, and has been exhibited at the 2019 Webit tech festival in Europe.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
Aircraft Type: Wingless VTOL
Powerplant: All-electric
Range: 10-15 minute flight time
Top Speed: Undisclosed
Propeller Configuration: 12 electric motors each with a single propeller
Passenger/Payload Capacity: Single-seater
Autonomy Level: Piloted
Dimensions: Undisclosed
Other Information
From the Fly Aerospace Site:
Latest News
Right now we're focused on recruiting and fundraising, but hope to get back to flying soon. We have custom components in production that will lead to dramatic performance improvements on the next version. Speaking of the next version...
About the FlytCycle
It's hard to believe, but we built the current FlytCycle prototype in just three short weeks. Since its completion we've already several hundred test flights and it's the best flying vehicle we've ever made, plus it's been a ton of fun to be able to fly it around and see what it can do! Although it's powerful enough to fly a person, it's small enough to fit in the bed of a standard pickup truck!
Our Take on FlytCycle
The FlytCycle is a rapidly developed and highly iteratively designed hover bike that was designed and built in under 3 weeks. The Flytcycle is currently barebones, but gave the team great insight for designing their next aircraft. Flyt had planned to release photos of this next version of its aircraft, named the Red Hummingbird, in March of 2020, but COVID-19 may have slowed down production. According to Flyt, the Red Hummingbird prototype was in fact completed in January of 2020, although no news has been published since then.
References
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September 24, 2023Jetoptera Personal Drone
Quick SummaryThe Jetoptera Personal Drone is being designed and manufactured with patented "Fluidic Propulsion" according to the flying car maker. Jetoptera is creating an entire range of drones/flying cars, ranging from small enough to be held in a human's hand to large enough to carry a person.CompanyCEOProduct NameJetoptera, an Edmonds, WA, USA company. Dr. Denis DancanetJetoptera 2000Stage of DevelopmentPreliminary DesignPrototype...

Jetoptera Personal Drone

Quick Summary
The Jetoptera Personal Drone is being designed and manufactured with patented "Fluidic Propulsion" according to the flying car maker. Jetoptera is creating an entire range of drones/flying cars, ranging from small enough to be held in a human's hand to large enough to carry a person.
Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
While there are no technical details released for the full-scale Jetoptera 2000, the company has released a subset of specifications for the smaller Jetoptera 55 version:
Jetoptera 55 Part 107 sUAS Performance
Aircraft Type: VTOL with moveable wing
Powerplant: Hybrid-electric
Range: undisclosed
Top Speed: 87 knots
Propeller Configuration: 2 ducted fans (with fluidic technology)
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 5-15 lbs*/MTOW 55 lbs
Autonomy Level: piloted
Wingspan/Dimensions: ~2m
Additional Information
Max Alt: 400 feet AGL (geo preset)
Max Flight Time: 30 min*
Standard
VTOL + Hovering
2 x P160 Rxi Jetcat turbojets
Futaba Hand Controller
Navigation Lighting/Strobe
Optional
PING-200sr MODE S ADS-B Transponder
UAV Factory Ground Control Station
* 30 min with 5 lbs payload and at max speed
Government Sales Performance
Same as above, except:
Top Speed: 250 knots
Passenger/Payload Capacity: 5-15 lbs*/MTOW 55 lbs
Standard Features
VTOL + Hovering
2 x P160 Rxi Jetcat turbojets
UAV Factory Ground Control Station
Backup Futaba Hand Controller
Navigation Lighting/Strobe
Optional Features
Conventional or STOL
PING-200sr MODE S ADS-B Transponder
* 20 min with max speed and/or 15 lbs payload
30 min with lower speed and 5 lbs payload
Our Take on Jetoptera
The Jetoptera product line continues reasonable development with the Jetoptera 55 scale demonstrator prototype allowing the company to complete most of their systems integration and aerodynamic modeling validation tasks. Additionally, the company is using their own patented technology for propulsion (Fluidic) that may allow for greater performance gains. Since there are no projected performance statistics on the people-carrying variants of Jetoptera's aircraft, it's hard to say when and where the full-scale 2000 prototype will begin testing.
References
The Latest News from TransportUP
Cyclorotor Conducts First Flight of Unique Unmanned Aircraft Configuration
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September 24, 2023DEKATONE Flying Car
Quick SummaryThe DEKATONE Flying Car is a concept created by Gary Daprato and Charles Bombardier of Imaginactive, an industrial design company based in Toronto, Canada. The goal of the Dekatone concept is to make flying as simple as driving a ground-based car by using a harmonized, rapidly actuating, gimbaled variable thrust set to the four corners of an aircraft to create multiple centers of...

DEKATONE Flying Car

Quick Summary
The DEKATONE Flying Car is a concept created by Gary Daprato and Charles Bombardier of Imaginactive, an industrial design company based in Toronto, Canada. The goal of the Dekatone concept is to make flying as simple as driving a ground-based car by using a harmonized, rapidly actuating, gimbaled variable thrust set to the four corners of an aircraft to create multiple centers of gravity.
Imaginactive, based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Stage of Development
Preliminary Design
Technical Details
The DEKATONE Flying Car does not have any published technical specifications.
Our Take on Dekatone
Notably, the Dekatone flying car concept isolates pitch and roll movements at each rotor in order to reduce rolling effects on passengers and make piloting more like 2-dimensional road driving. However, even though a small-scale proof of concept prototype has been created, the Dekatone Flying Car is likely to remain in concept phase since no updates or funding news has been announced.
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