Pushing the Envelope: Eurocopter X3 and X4

Stephen Pope

Friday, July 20, 2012 at 11:25 PM ET

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Eurocopter X3

Key Takeaways:

Eurocopter is developing two next-generation rotorcraft, the X3 and X4, which feature "extreme" and "radical" designs aimed at significantly advancing helicopter technology.
The X4 is an ambitious replacement for the EC 155 Dauphin, promising major innovations in technology, performance, and pilot interface, with a future "dramatically transformed" cockpit.
The X4 is projected to offer substantial benefits, including 20% greater fuel efficiency per passenger and a 50% reduction in sound compared to current helicopters.
The X3 is a technology demonstrator with a unique design that has achieved high speeds (232 knots) and aims to provide turboprop-like cruise efficiency with a 50% performance increase for only a 25% cost increase.

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Looking ahead at the future of rotorcraft design, Eurocopter has launched two concurrent research and development programs that are aimed at producing the company’s next generation of civil and military helicopters. To say these designs are extreme in appearance and operation is an understatement. Quite simply, nothing like the Eurocopter X3 and X4 has ever taken flight.

The X4 is part of the major innovation and fleet renewal program to replace the Eurocopter EC 155 Dauphin, which has been a top seller in the medium-lift helicopter category since its introduction 1975. The X4 is an extremely ambitious design, particularly in terms of the technology, performance, operating costs, environmental impact targets and even the overall way the pilot will control the helicopter.