Browsing: UAV

Volocopter VoloCity
shambo.pfaff@i…
Wed, 11/29/2023 – 14:18

The VoloCity is a multicopter eVTOL being developed by Volocopter GmbH. The aircraft has begun flight testing and has over 1000 hours logged. Entry into service is expected in 2024/25 and the aircraft is to be certified by EASA and the FAA under the SC-VTOL enhanced category, and part 21.17b, respectively. Volocopter have approximately 500 orders between all of their aircraft, a very small amount are firm orders.

Structure and Powertrain

The aircraft seats a passenger and a pilot within the pod-like composite fuselage with large viewing windows and skid-style landing gear. Stretching above the cabin is a circular frame with 18 lift fans spread across it, each powered by their own brushless DC electric motor. The aircraft has nine lithium-ion exchangeable, rechargeable batteries. Crouzet are to supply circuit breaker, control stick and rescue box, and Autoflug GmbH & Co. are to supply the seating.

Distributed electric propulsion (DEP) is the name given to this method of powering aircraft. No critical points of failure provide a high level of redundancy and will ensure safety onboard.