Horizon Aircraft Announces Plans for 7-Seat Hybrid eVTOL

The Canadian manufacturer initially set its sights on a five-seat prototype before pivoting to a larger model.

Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 05:31 PM ET

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Horizon Aircraft's Cavorite X5 prototype, which will soon be replaced with a seven-seat model. [Courtesy: Horizon Aircraft]

Key Takeaways:

Horizon Aircraft is pivoting its eVTOL development from the Cavorite X5 to the larger, seven-seat Cavorite X7, designed for diverse applications including medical evacuation, cargo, military, and regional air taxi services.
The Cavorite X7 is touted to be bigger, faster (250 mph), and have a longer range (500 sm) compared to competitors, featuring a hybrid-electric power system that enhances its operational capabilities and useful load.
This strategic shift was prompted by positive flight test results of the X5 prototype, internal aerodynamic analysis, and significant customer demand for a larger aircraft with lower passenger seat-mile costs.
The X7 incorporates a "fan-in-wing" technology and a hybrid-electric system that allows for vertical or conventional takeoff, in-flight battery recharging, and extended mission times, making it potentially safer and easier to certify.

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There’s a new electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft design in development. And it claims to be bigger, faster, and roomier than designs from Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, Lilium, or EHang.

Toronto-based manufacturer Horizon Aircraft on Tuesday revealed that it has improved on the design of its flagship five-seater Cavorite X5—so much so that the firm is pivoting to a new model. Horizon will replace the X5 with the Cavorite X7, a larger, seven-seat version for applications in medical evacuation, critical supply delivery, disaster relief, and military missions.