Company Alauda Aeronautics unveiled the fourth version of its flying machine, the first designed for a human crew. The Mk.3 has completed more than 350 successful flights and in 2022 it performed at two demonstration races. New Airspeeder Mk.4 wants to become the fastest electric machine of its kind – the maximum speed is 360 km/h, the range is 300 kilometers.
The aircraft weighs only 950 kg, the propellers are turned by electric motors powered by a hydrogen turbogenerator with an output of 1000 kW (1360 hp). Hydrogen was chosen not only because of its high energy density, but also because in the event of an accident or leak, it rises up and disperses into space, reducing the risk of fire or explosion. Propellers are housed in gimbals created on a 3D printer.
Flight tests with a human crew will begin this year, and next year the Airspeeder should participate in the championship for machines of this type. Except races will be used for the development of “personal flying cars”, in which the manufacturer sees great potential.
Experience-proven and race-tested Airspeeder Mk.3
There are said to be equal numbers of private jets and commercial jets currently flying, so a trivially easy-to-use passenger plane could attract a number of buyers. Matt Pearson, CEO of Alauda Aeronautics, says that when his plane costs the same as Tesla, it will revolutionize transportation.
The ambitions are great and there is no shortage of investment money (at least for now) – the team already includes experts from companies such as Boeing, Airbus, Ferrari or McLaren.
