Aribus is one step closer in moving ordinary travel from the ground to the sky. The CityAirbus demonstrator that aims to autonomously transport people around urban areas has just passed a major milestone this week—it fired up its propulsion system for the very first time.
Last year, the company unveiled CityAirbus, “a multi-passenger, self-piloted electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) demonstrator designed for urban air mobility with cost efficiency, high-volume production, and a low environmental footprint in mind.”
The design is battery-powered, and will carry up to four passengers at a time. To increase safety and provide a low acoustic footprint, the air vehicle includes a four-ducted propeller configuration.
During this week’s test, the team checked the performance of each ducted propeller, and the integration of the full-scale propulsion unit consisting of all electrical systems, two propellers, and electric 100 KW Siemens motors.
“We now have a better understanding on the performance of CityAirbus’ innovative electric propulsion system, which we will continue to mature through rigorous testing while beginning the assembly of the full-scale CityAirbus flight demonstrator,” says CityAirbus Chief Engineer Marius Bebesel.
Before the full-scale version takes to the sky, it will go through initial ground tests. In the first half of 2018, the team hopes to reach the “power on” phase, where all electrical systems and motors will be switched on, an inaugural feat.
According to Airbus, the vehicle is on track for its maiden flight at the end of 2018. During that time, test flights will be remotely piloted before a test pilot will take the helm.
You can see the CityAirbus demonstrator’s complete timeline in the infographic below. To view a larger version, click here.