eVTOL Aircraft
eVTOL: A Solution for the Future
An eVTOL stands for “electric vertical take-off and landing,” referring to electric aircraft that can take off and land vertically.
The goal is simple: to reduce city congestion using small, mostly autonomous aircraft.
Many companies are investing in this field, including Uber, Airbus, Embraer, and many others.
The eVTOL market represents the aerial taxi capable of taking off from a simple helipad. Generally designed with a drone-like shape featuring multiple blades, their design is akin to helicopters but with electric engines.
Technology for Safety and Comfort
Having reliable data networks is crucial when implementing artificial intelligence, a major challenge in eVTOL development.
The increase in data transfers due to the “autonomous” aspect requires an efficient system to work with. Many of these innovations can be seen at the EBACE show held annually near Geneva.
Additionally, using AI-powered eVTOLs will require a robust network to communicate with each other.
Overcoming the battery capacity of larger devices and longer flights remains a significant obstacle for eVTOL technology.
Safety and Psychology
Spartan College must constantly update certification programs for new VTOL aircraft and create new training programs to encourage wider acceptance of eVTOL aircraft.
Additionally, these aircraft feature various designs and technologies.
Instead of taking a taxi or commercial flight, one can travel in a small,
autonomous, less expensive, and, most importantly, more environmentally friendly aircraft.
The Benefits of eVTOL
A Deloitte survey revealed that more than half of respondents believe eVTOL aircraft will reduce traffic congestion. However, 80% of those surveyed also thought electric aircraft posed higher risks.
Investors must understand public perception and balance it with their ideas when seeking funding.
Regulating the sky is challenging, as new airlines must work together to remain safe.
Challenges of eVTOL
Creating an unmanned air traffic control system requires extensive work, necessitating key elements to achieve this goal. Ensuring constant surveillance is crucial for passenger safety and promoting the adoption of this new mode of transport.
Additionally, major airlines already want to dominate urban skies due to the many challenges they face with “classic” aviation and the economic potential this sector could represent in the coming years. –
Leading Industry Players
Airbus is currently developing CityAirbus and Vahana, two single-seat and two-seat concepts.
Boeing’s work significantly impacts eVTOL development.
In 2016, Uber launched a car for aerial ridesharing called Uber Elevate. The company sold it in December 2020 to a second aviation company called Joby Aviation.
Joby Aviation announced its intention to partner with automaker Toyota to create a five-seat aerial taxi.
These air taxis can reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour and cover 150 miles per flight.
New Competitors
Start-ups and airlines often collaborate to develop new technologies.
Earlier this year, United Airlines launched a partnership with Archer to create eVTOL vehicles.
Archer plans to create a short-haul electric air taxi.
Its goal is to create a vehicle capable of operating in high-density urban environments.
Once Archer completes this project, its vehicle will be deployed in Los Angeles by 2024.
The Most Innovative Aircraft
All current manufacturers are looking to invest in the eVTOL market, but few manage to produce a truly standout project.
Discover our selection of the most convincing aircraft.
Airbus and their CityAirbus
Airbus plans to certify its new flying taxi, the City Airbus NextGen, by 2025. The aircraft manufacturer is optimistic about the gradual growth of its market and has not yet decided where to build the device.
Volocopter GmbH from Bruchsal
The German company Volocopter has developed the Volocopter 2X flying taxi.
The electric-powered concept vehicle was launched in 2019 and is currently being tested in Singapore.
Horizon Aircraft “Cavorite X5”
The Canadian company Horizon Aircraft plans to release the Cavorite X5 aircraft by 2024.
This aircraft would use an innovative propulsion mode that would change the aviation field.
Lilium Jet by Lilium GmbH
Lilium Jet aircraft are powered by 36 propellers integrated into the wings of the aircraft.
They must be certified to carry passengers plus a pilot over distances of less than 250 km and can travel at a speed of 280 km/h.
