1st all-electric VTOL jet!
In a video provided by the Munich-based startup, the aircraft can be seen taking off vertically like a helicopter, and then accelerating into forward flight using wing-borne lift. Doesn't look like there's anyone inside it yet. These test were done with a pilot standing on the ground flying line of sight.
The craft is powered by 36 separate jet engines mounted on its 10-meter long wings via 12 movable flaps. Once airborne, the flaps gradually tilt into a horizontal position, providing forward thrust.
Lilium claims that its electric battery “consumes around 90 percent less energy than drone-style aircraft,” enabling the aircraft to achieve a range of 300 kilometers (183 miles) with a maximum cruising speed of 300 kph (183 mph). If it's true, this is the most exciting thing to happen in aviation in awhile.
Im telling ya, this will be the way to go in like 5-10 est. more years from now. I cant wait
me too! they've been promising me a flying car for decades now!
Since at least the Jetsons, technology is finally catching up.
Good post @edwardseaton
thanks!
You welcome
I have seen my cell phone die without warning to trust my life to battery power. I hope they don't fly over my home.
they will have to make several key parts redundant, and that may be a few years out, but this is a significant step forward. Gas Engines can quit too. This is why the forward flight characteristics in this particular model is so important!