Volocopter Unveils Larger eVTOL for City & Suburban Travel

Volocopter Unveils VoloConnect eVTOL Aircraft

Volocopter, a German electric aviation company, announced on Monday the development of a new all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This new model is specifically targeted towards commuters traveling between suburban areas and city centers.

VoloConnect: Range and Design

The VoloConnect is a four-passenger aircraft engineered for a range of 62 miles. This capability makes it ideal for journeys connecting suburbs with urban cores, according to the company.

This aircraft represents a notable shift in design philosophy compared to Volocopter’s initial passenger eVTOL, the VoloCity. The VoloCity is intended for shorter intra-city flights and currently awaits certification. It offers a more limited range of 22 miles.

Expanding Market Reach

The extended range of the VoloConnect signals Volocopter’s intention to pursue opportunities beyond major metropolitan areas. It also positions the company to more directly challenge other emerging eVTOL developers in the industry.

The specifications of the VoloConnect align with those of competitors such as Archer Aviation and Wisk Aero, both of whom are developing eVTOLs with projected ranges of approximately 60 miles.

Hybrid Lift and Propulsion System

VoloConnect utilizes a hybrid lift-and-push configuration. This design integrates features commonly found in both helicopters and conventional fixed-wing aircraft.

Vertical lift is achieved through six propellers positioned parallel to the aircraft’s fuselage and connected by wings. Forward propulsion is provided by two large fans located on either side of the aircraft.

The aircraft incorporates three retractable wheels, enabling smooth take-off and landing procedures.

Performance and Certification Timeline

Volocopter states that the new aircraft can attain a cruising speed of 112 mph (180 km/h), with a maximum speed reaching approximately 155 mph (250 km/h).

The company is aiming to secure certification for the VoloConnect by the year 2026.

Competition and Future Plans

Numerous electric aviation startups are vying to be the first to introduce a commercially viable aircraft to the market. While unveiling the VoloConnect, Volocopter remains primarily focused on launching its air taxi service, utilizing the smaller VoloCity aircraft, in Singapore by 2023.

However, before any of Volocopter’s aircraft can commence operations, they must first obtain type certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Administration (EASA). Singapore operations will also require approval from the relevant local aviation authorities.