UK-based Vertical Aerospace has started ground testing of its latest VX4 prototype eVTOL aircraft.
The test program of the more advanced VX4 prototype has begun with initial powered ground tests, including propeller balancing recently completed at the company’s Flight Test Centre.
Propeller balancing and spinning tests measure the weight distribution of each propeller blade to ensure vibrations are minimized for smooth, stable flying.
The company will next conduct powered, propulsion testing ahead of a “wheels up” phase with piloted flights, once regulator the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued its Permit to Fly.
The propulsion testing will include running the proprietary battery packs capable of producing 1.4MW of peak power and has been designed, and built to certification safety standards in house. These tests will first be tethered to prevent lift-off and running the engines at various power levels to measure thrust output, system integration, and structural integrity, before progressing to low-speed untethered flights.
David King, chief engineer at Vertical Aerospace said, “These tests are a crucial step forward in our mission to certify the VX4 and make a cleaner, quieter, and safer way of air mobility a reality. Every day we are seeing amazing progress from the team at our Flight Test Centre, each test providing valuable insights to help shape the next. We continue to work alongside our regulator to develop the safest and most advanced eVTOL aircraft in the world.”
“As the aerospace world meets in Farnborough this week, we could not be prouder of the team and look forward to sharing more on our progress towards piloted flights.”
The latest VX4 is more powerful than the previous full-scale prototype, with a 20% increase in its power to weight ratio, enabling the aircraft to reach speeds of up to 150mph (240km/h) – the certification aircraft’s intended cruise speed. The production aircraft is designed to carry four passengers.
