Vertical Aerospace unveils latest full-scale VX4 aircraft
UK eVTOL designer and developer, Vertical Aerospace, has unveiled its recently-completed full-scale VX4 aircraft ahead of its upcoming flight test programme.
The most advanced prototype built by the company to date, the next-generation VX4 eVTOL features a number of notable advancements which will prove instrumental in the next round of flight testing; scheduled to commence shortly at the company’s Cotswold Airport flight test centre.
Having successfully completed systems and aircraft testing and commissioning, Vertical is now working closely with the UK Civil Aviation Authority “as it vigorously evaluates the engineering, design, test data and aircraft ahead of issuing a Permit to Fly”.
The latest iteration features an “impressive 20% increase in the power-to-weight ratio,” enabling the new VX4 to reach speeds of up to 150mph; the certification aircraft’s intended cruise speed. Designed and built alongside global aerospace partners (including GKN Aerospace, Honeywell, Hanwha, Molicel, Leonardo and Syensqo), it also features Vertical’s next generation propellers and new proprietary battery technology, manufactured at Bristol’s Vertical Centre.
Specifically, 60% of the technology and components included on the latest aircraft are from world-leading aerospace partners, up from 10% on the previous prototype. The new proprietary carbon fibre propellers have also been “specifically designed to maximise performance across both hover and cruise by deconflicting the requirements of each phase of flight”.
“This is a critical step on our road to certification and commercialisation and, while there is more to do, the support of our partners and our £6 billion order book shows the trust and confidence the industry has in our outstanding product,” explained Stuart Simpson, chief executive officer at Vertical. “We are excited to start our robust, flight test programme at our Flight Test Centre as we continue our focus on achieving piloted flight”.
