Vertical Aerospace has revealed its just-completed second full-scale prototype of its VX4 eVTOL aircraft ahead of the anticipated start of flight testing. On Thursday, the UK company released pictures of the aircraft and reported that it will proceed with the first flight as soon as the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issues a permit to fly.
The latest prototype is significantly different from an earlier version that Vertical had been using for flight tests since August. The company said 60% of the technology and components used for the second prototype has been supplied by key program partners such as GKN Aerospace, Hanwha, Honeywell, Leonardo, Molicel, and Synesqo.
Another important new feature is the propeller design, which Vertical initiated to incorporate lessons learned from the August 9, 2023 accident in which the first prototype was badly damaged. The company said that the aerodynamic shape of the new propellers has been designed to maximize performance for hover and cruise “by deconflicting the requirements of each phase of flight.”
One key change is that Rolls-Royce is no longer involved as the supplier of the VX4’s electric propulsion system after the aircraft engines group announced last year that it would sell its electrical division. Vertical is now working with other undisclosed suppliers for the powertrain, and the new prototype uses battery technology it has developed in-house at its Vertical Energy Centre in Bristol.
According to Vertical, the second prototype features a 20% increase in power-to-weight ratio. The company said this will enable the all-electric aircraft to reach speeds of up to 130 knots, which is the targeted cruise speed for the certification version of the four-passenger vehicle.
The aircraft is expected to have an operational range of up to 87 nm. Vertical is projecting typical flight times for anticipated early routes including 8 minutes from Battersea heliport in central London to Heathrow Airport, and 11 minutes from Miami to Fort Lauderdale.
The latest version of the VX4 has completed ground tests and commissioning procedures. Vertical said it is now working with CAA officials to complete the evaluation of the engineering, design, test data, and the aircraft itself that is required before a permit to fly can be issued.
The aircraft will be put through a comprehensive flight test program at Vertical’s Flight Test Centre located at Kemble Airport in the West of England. The company has previously said it is aiming to complete UK and EASA type certification in 2026.
“This is a critical step on our road to certification and commercialization and, while there is more to do, the support of our partners and our $6 billion order book shows the trust and confidence the industry has in our outstanding product,” said Vertical’s CEO Stuart Simpson. “We are excited to start our robust test flight program at our Flight Test Centre as we focus on achieving piloted flight.”
Helicopter operator Bristow and major airlines including American, Virgin, and Japan Airlines are among the prospective operators for the VX4.