AutoFlight debuted its autonomous fixed-wing passenger electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (“eVTOL”) to the world at the China Airshow in Zhuhai.
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With its sleek looks and innovative technology, the V1500M doesn’t rely on runways and airports.
It can vertically take off and land anywhere anytime. Virtually any rooftop or flat surface becomes a vertiport. When it reaches a certain altitude, the power system turns on the dual prop pusher, so that V1500M is able to cruise at speeds of a fixed-wing aeroplane. And in low-altitude airspace, the all-electric design enables the aircraft to operate at a very low noise level.
As the energy consumption in the fixed-wing mode is much lower than in the multirotor mode the V1500M can fly much further than any pure multicoptor eVTOL.
Being able to fly without a pilot, the V1500M’s uses eight lifting motors to take off and land vertically like a multi-rotor aircraft, and fly as far as 250 km when carrying up to four passengers. At the moment, a safety pilot is still mandatory. Yet as technology advances and regulations become increasingly refined, that space can later be allocated to another passenger or extra luggage.
In terms of safety, AutoFlight with its rich experience in aircraft design, manufacturing and its dedication to making reliable flying cars, following aviation industry’s standards.
The lifting rotor’s and prop pusher’s redundant power system guarantees that the aircraft could hover safely when two of the rotors malfunction. In case of one propeller failure, the other one still ensures safe flight and landing. The V1500M also has a whole-aircraft parachute, which is designed to act as the last line of safety to protect passengers so they enjoy safe flying.
V1500M will accomplish its first flight in the near future. The goal is to certify the aircraft with the aviation authorities by 2024. ■
Under an intense surge of arctic air, Friday morning will begin with the coldest temperatures so far this season across much of the central and eastern U.S. with blustery conditions and a piercing wind chill.