Volocopter presents Ultralight multicopter VoloXPro
The VoloXPro multicopter falls into the ultralight class with its low weight. This comes with compromises.
The Volocopter VoloXPro. (Rendering)
(Image: Volocopter)
The German eVTOL aviation company Volocopter, based in Bruchsal, presented the electrically powered, lightweight, two-seater multicopter VoloXPro in Friedrichshafen at the AERO trade fair, which is set to be certified in Germany in 2026. The market launch is scheduled to follow. The company announced this on Thursday. The multicopter, with a total of 18 rotors, can transport two people, including the pilot, with a payload of 154 kg at a low takeoff weight of 600 kg.
The multicopter is electrically powered by 18 motors and rotors arranged in a ring. The airframe is very light. In total, the VoloXpro has a maximum takeoff weight of 600 kg, thus meeting the conditions for ultralight aircraft (UL). The payload is 154 kg. The VoloXPro is controlled via fly-by-wire with a flight lever and features various flight assistance systems that support the pilot, thereby minimizing their workload in the cockpit.
Overall, the multicopter is very simple and modular in design, the manufacturer promises. This allows for different technical configurations and equipment variants to be realized. Volocopter cites cost-effective minimalist systems as examples, up to a high-end model with special technical refinements for professional applications, such as additional assistance systems, faster charging, and, in the future, more powerful batteries. Interior fittings and exterior design can also be customized according to customer wishes.
Manageable Range
The space for only one passenger and the maximum range on a single battery charge clearly indicate that the multicopter was not primarily developed for air taxi operations in aviation. The range is only 40 km. Volocopter states the cruising speed at 70 km/h. However, with further development of battery cell technology, a higher range can be expected. Volocopter anticipates a range increase of around 25 percent by 2027 through a new battery. The battery can be easily swapped due to the modular design of the machine.
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The areas of application for the VoloXPro are largely defined by the maximum number of passengers, the payload, and the range. Possible uses include short-haul air taxis for individuals, recreational use, and as a training machine for pilot training for powered-lift aircraft (vertical takeoff and landing).
Volocopter speaks of low operating expenses. Those who want to buy a VoloXPro must be prepared for investments in the price range of approximately 490,000 euros.
(olb)
