Maglev Aero Debuts Magnetic Propulsion Technology in Paris, Partners with GE

Startup promises efficient and ultraquiet eVTOL flights using magnetic levitation technology.

Jack Daleo

Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 04:03 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

MagLev Aero unveiled its HyperDrive propulsion system for eVTOL aircraft, utilizing magnetic levitation and a unique many-bladed rim design to significantly reduce operational noise.
The innovative HyperDrive system addresses the critical issue of eVTOL noise by achieving lower blade tip speed and loading, while also improving efficiency and safety.
MagLev Aero plans to license its patented HyperDrive technology to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for integration into their aircraft designs, rather than building its own eVTOLs.
The company has partnered with GE Additive's AddWorks for advanced manufacturing development and secured support from prominent technology investors and aerospace leaders.

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This week at the Paris Air Show, MagLev Aero co-founders and father-and-son duo Rod and Ian Randall debuted their state-of-the-art propulsion system for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft using an unlikely energy source: magnets.

Maglev is shorthand for magnetic levitation, a term that almost sounds made up. But the propulsion system is actually fairly common, frequently deployed to power high-speed trains. MagLev Aero, however, is working to apply it to eVTOL aircraft and has already been issued more than 20 patents for its technology.