Dufour’s Aero2 eVTOL prototype features tilt wings that can be oriented horizontally or vertically. [Courtesy: Dufour Aerospace]
Key Takeaways:
Dufour Aerospace has finalized the design and specifications for its Aero2 tilt-wing eVTOL drone, with the final prototype (X2.3) scheduled for flight testing in early 2024 and serial production in 2025.
Dubbed the "Swiss Army knife of drones," the Aero2 features hybrid-electric propulsion, an improved maximum takeoff weight, and is designed for diverse applications such as critical cargo delivery, remote sensing, and public safety operations.
The company has secured significant commercial commitments, including a deal with Spright for up to 140 Aero2 aircraft, along with a Series B funding round and a $2.8 million grant.
Dufour is also developing the larger, piloted Aero3 model, which will carry up to eight passengers and maintain the tilt-wing, hybrid-electric design, with certification targeted for late 2025.
A tilt-wing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, billed as “the Swiss Army knife of drones,” just obtained its final design and specifications.
The aircraft in question, Swiss eVTOL manufacturer Dufour Aerospace’s Aero2, has been in development for years and is now entering its final prototype phase, the firm announced Thursday.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
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.
