Vertical Aerospace [NYSE: EVTL] has unveiled its latest full-scale VX4 prototype, marking significant advancements in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology.
This new iteration of the VX4 is designed, built, and assembled entirely in the UK. It represents a major leap forward in the race to bring sustainable urban air mobility to market.
VX4 Prototype Enhancements
The latest VX4 prototype boasts an impressive 20% increase in power-to-weight ratio compared to its predecessor. This has enabled it to reach speeds of up to 150mph.
This matches the intended cruise speed of the certification aircraft, demonstrating Vertical’s commitment to delivering on its performance promises.
The enhanced capabilities of the new prototype bring the company one step closer to realizing its vision of revolutionizing short-haul air travel.
Developed through strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as GKN Aerospace, Honeywell, Hanwha, Molicel, Leonardo, and Syensqo, the VX4 prototype incorporates cutting-edge aerospace technology.
World-leading aerospace partners now supply 60% of the aircraft’s components, thanks to this collaborative approach.. This is a significant increase from the 10% in the previous model.
Battery Technology
One of the most notable features of the new VX4 is its proprietary battery technology. Vertical’s state-of-the-art Vertical Energy Centre near Bristol designed and manufactured the unit.
Experts recognize this facility as the UK’s most advanced aerospace battery center. It has developed a power system specifically tailored for the unique demands of eVTOL flight.
The new battery system offers improved power output, reduced weight, and rapid charging capabilities, addressing key challenges in electric aviation.
Carbon Fiber Propellers
The VX4’s next-generation propellers represent another significant advancement. Manufacturers craft these from carbon fiber composite using a single-shot cure process.
Engineers have optimized the propellers for low noise operation while maximizing performance in both hover and cruise flight modes.
This dual optimization tackles one of the critical challenges in eVTOL design – balancing the conflicting requirements of vertical takeoff and forward flight.
Current Testing & Evaluation
The aircraft has now successfully completed systems testing and commissioning. The new VX4 prototype is now undergoing rigorous evaluation by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
This process, described as a “mini certification” program, is a crucial step towards obtaining a Permit to Fly.
Once secured, this permit will allow Vertical to commence its comprehensive flight test program at the Vertical Flight Test Centre, with a primary focus on achieving piloted flight.
Stuart Simpson, Chief Executive Officer of Vertical, emphasized the significance of this milestone. “Our goal is to build the safest and most advanced aircraft in this new category of transport.”
“The new full-scale VX4 prototype has been built by combining our own world-leading technology with that from leading aerospace partners. We are well on the way to achieving that goal.”
The unveiling of this advanced prototype has garnered enthusiasm from industry partners and potential operators.
Dave Stepanek, Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer at Bristow Group, one of the world’s largest helicopter operators, expressed excitement about the progress. He highlighted the collaborative effort between Vertical and potential end-users.
David Shilliday, Vice President and General Manager of Unmanned Aerial Systems / Urban Air Mobility at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, praised the VX4. he caracterised it as a testament to the power of industry collaboration.
He highlighted the integration of Honeywell’s Anthem flight deck and fly-by-wire system. This contributes to the aircraft’s overall safety and ease of operation.
Next Steps
As Vertical Aerospace moves forward with its testing program, the company is simultaneously developing an identical full-scale prototype.
This dual-prototype approach aims to accelerate the VX4’s flight test program and enhance its demonstration capabilities.
The insights gained from both prototypes will be instrumental in refining the design of the certified VX4 model.
With a substantial $6 billion order book already in place, Vertical Aerospace is poised to make a significant impact on the future of urban air mobility.
The unveiling of this advanced VX4 prototype really demonstrates the company’s technological prowess. It also reinforces the growing confidence in eVTOL technology as a viable solution for sustainable short-distance air travel.
A key thrust of the aviation industry is the reduction of its overall carbon footprint. Innovations like the VX4 are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation.
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