Ascendance Flight Technologies hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) airplane…
When French startup Ascendance Flight Technologies launched their first concept Atea VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) a couple of years ago – range, capacity, and flexibility were not at the top of the priority list.
Forward to today, and the company has a new toy and a new set of priorities. For their latest model, the company has developed their own hybrid-electric power source called Sterna, which combines a kerosene combustion engine with battery packs – which will eventually make way for hydrogen powered engines or sustainable aviation fuel.
Another innovation that sets this Evtol apart is the fan-in-wing configuration. A total of eight rotors are set in a tandem wing, allowing major boost during take-off and landing. The absence of any pivoting mechanisms for its two propellers reduces weight and costs, while improving safety and assisting with certification.
Thanks to the hybrid propulsion system and the integration of the vertical rotors in the wings, this VTOL cuts carbon emissions by 80 percent, while also being four times quieter than a standard helicopter. This noise reduction results in extra urban area flights becoming available that were previously inaccessible due to noise constraints from the government. Able to fly on inner city or regional routes for up to two hours, it boasts a 400 km range.
The cruise speed is 200 km/h, with a quick turn around time on the ground of 10 minutes. Designed with state-of-the-art flight controls which help simplify controls or any future maintenance, this mechanical bird can seemingly be operated by anyone who has watched Top Gun.
Ascendance Flight Technologies plans to market the ATEA for taxi service, tourism, medical emergencies, and air cargo. It has undergone numerous test flights with different prototypes and plans start operating in the Asia-Pacific by 2025. With a modern design and comfort for five people (including pilot), the ‘skyview’ cabin that offers spectacular views is the main selling point – as well as the luggage space.
By Bill Varetimidis
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