eVTOL

Flight testing of Elroy’s Chaparral, a hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing (hVTOL) design, is scheduled to begin in July.

The German manufacturer looks to expand its industrial footprint with the expansion of production capabilities into France.

The electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) manufacturer says its newly installed battery pack manufacturing line is capable of producing up to 15,000 per year.

The partners are modifying Pyka’s flagship Pelican Cargo aircraft, an uncrewed, fully electric drone, for use by DOD customers.

The manufacturer in December made the world’s first commercial eVTOL demonstration flight in China and has obtained type, production, and airworthiness approvals.

The manufacturer agrees to sell aircraft to UrbanLink Air Mobility, a company founded in March that plans to operate eVTOL aircraft in several major American cities.

Until now, the manufacturer had only performed flight testing with less-developed, preproduction prototypes.

The manufacturer says its presence at this year’s event in Geneva will be its largest yet.

The manufacturer has completed its second production prototype, which it says will join its initial prototype at Edwards Air Force Base in California later this year.

The test flight marks a key milestone for the manufacturer, which is looking to certify its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) design in the U.S. by 2026.