Vertical Aerospace chief test pilot Justin Paines sits in the cockpit of the company’s VX4 air taxi during propeller testing. [Courtesy: Vertical Aerospace]
Key Takeaways:
U.K.-based Vertical Aerospace has initiated ground testing for a new, more advanced full-scale VX4 eVTOL prototype, following a crash of its initial prototype last year.
The latest prototype features improved power (aiming for 150 mph cruise speed), new propellers, proprietary battery technology, and incorporates 60% supplier-sourced components, a significant increase from the first model.
Vertical Aerospace plans to complete rigorous testing, including seeking a permit to fly for crewed and untethered flights, with a goal of achieving type certification by the end of 2026.
The company continues to receive strong financial support, including $10 million from the U.K. government for propeller development and $50 million from its founder to fund testing and certification through mid-2025.
U.K.-based electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxi manufacturer Vertical Aerospace is back to testing aircraft.
The manufacturer has begun ground testing a new, more advanced full-scale prototype of its flagship VX4 air taxi after an initial prototype was damaged during an uncrewed flight test last year.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
