Vertical Aerospace has unveiled its next generation full-scale VX4 prototype, the only eVTOL designed, built and assembled in the UK. This next-generation VX4 is more powerful than the previous full-scale prototype, with a 20 per cent increase in the power to weight ratio, enabling the aircraft to reach speeds of up to 150mph, the certification aircraft's intended cruise speed. Vertical has begun testing the aircraft. Propeller balancing and spinning tests measure weight distribution of each propeller blade to ensure vibrations are minimised for smooth, stable flying.

Over the coming days, the company will conduct powered, propulsion system testing of its most advanced powertrain, which includes proprietary battery packs capable of producing 1.4 MW of peak power and has been designed and built to certification safety standards at its multi-million-pound Vertical Energy Centre near Bristol, the UK's most advanced aerospace battery facility. These next tests involve securely anchoring the aircraft to prevent lift-off and running the engines at various power levels to measure thrust output, system integration and structural integrity. Together, these tests will ensure the VX4 meets the highest standards of operational safety, which are needed for piloted flights.

The aircraft has been designed and built alongside global aerospace partners, including GKN Aerospace, Honeywell, Hanwha, Molicel, Leonardo and Syensqo. It features Vertical's next generation propellers and new proprietary battery technology, designed and manufactured at the Vertical Energy Centre.

The new VX4 prototype has successfully completed systems and aircraft testing and commissioning. Vertical is now working closely with the UK CAA as it rigorously evaluates the engineering, design, test data and aircraft ahead of issuing a Permit to Fly, effectively conducting a ‘mini certification’ programme. Vertical will then begin a robust flight test programme at the Vertical Flight Test Centre, with a focus on achieving piloted flight.

Vertical is currently developing an identical full-scale prototype, which will accelerate the VX4's flight test programme and demonstration capability. The company will take flight test learnings from both prototypes into the design and development of the certified VX4 model.

Key new features of the latest full-scale VX4 prototype include: aerospace partner technology and certification expertise – 60 per cent of the technology and components included on the latest aircraft are from world leading aerospace partners, up from 10 per cent on the previous prototype. This makes it Vertical's most advanced prototype yet and a step closer to the aircraft that the company will take through to certification; first use of a battery designed and built for aviation – this battery and powertrain system, developed at the Vertical Energy Centre, is the most powerful and lightest yet, has rapid charge time and multiple backup power sources. The VX4's batteries are designed to meet the performance, safety, operational and commercial requirements of eVTOL, and it is the first time its own proprietary batteries have been used on a full-scale prototype. The electronics, software and design of the battery have all been developed in house and the new aircraft includes new, more powerful electronic propulsion units; and next generation propellers – Vertical's new proprietary propellers designed specifically for eVTOLs are optimised for low noise and made of carbon fibre composite using a single-shot cure process to maximise integrity. The aerodynamic shape has been specifically designed to maximise performance across both hover and cruise by deconflicting the requirements of each phase of flight.

Stuart Simpson, chief executive officer, comments: “Our goal is to build the safest and most advanced aircraft in this new category of transport. With the new full-scale VX4 prototype, which has been built by combining our own world-leading technology with that from leading aerospace partners, we are well on the way to achieving that goal.

“This is a critical step on our road to certification and commercialisation 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. We are excited to start our robust, test flight programme at our Flight Test Centre as we continue our focus on achieving piloted flight.”

Dave Stepanek, executive vice president and chief transformation officer, Bristow Group, adds: “As one of the world's largest helicopter operators, we're excited to be collaborating with Vertical as it works to bring the VX4 to market. We are delighted to see the progress being made with this latest prototype.”

David Shilliday, vice president and general manager, unmanned aerial systems/urban air mobility, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, states: “The VX4 is testament to what can be achieved when industry leaders join forces to pioneer the future of air mobility. This electric aircraft benefits from the Honeywell Anthem flight deck and software, as well as a state-of-the-art fly-by-wire system. This enables the pilot or autopilot to manoeuvre the aircraft safely and simply, ensuring a smooth journey.”