What are eVTOL aircraft, and can they fly against the hype?
The evolution of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft
LIFESTYLE Innovation
In April 2024, a Japanese company took delivery of an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, otherwise known as an eVTOL. Called Prosperity 1 and built by Chinese manufacturer AutoFlight, the aircraft is one of the very first examples of a production model eVTOL sold commercially. Fifteen years ago, the notion of an eVTOL was just a concept, with sceptics branding the idea as science fiction. Today, the sale of Prosperity 1 marks a major milestone in the development of what's known as Advanced Air Mobility, and with it the prospect of air taxis becoming a reality by the end of the decade. But who's responsible for introducing eVTOL, and how has this revolutionary method of travel evolved?
Click through and launch this gallery that explains more about eVTOL aircraft.