Airbus Unveils CityAirbus, Its First Urban Air Taxi

The European aircraft manufacturer is not falling behind in the emerging eVtol market and has showcased, in full scale, its first model.

Electric flying taxis, or eVtol (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing vehicle), are no longer science fiction. The demand is huge, primarily because these devices can be carbon-neutral if their electricity is green. Nothing like helicopters, both in terms of air and noise pollution.

The Airbus CityAirbus NextGen has completed assembly with an inaugural flight planned later this year. Weighing 2 tons, with a wingspan of 12 meters and 8 rotors. From above, this Airbus looks like a highly aerodynamic insect despite a cruising speed of only 120 km/h.

Cheaper and Quieter Flights?

Its necessity to remain as lightweight as possible limits its range to around 80 km, but ultra-fast recharging will allow extending its operational radius between two flights.

The first markets for eVtols will be in the Middle East, Brazil, Mexico, the United States, but also near major global megalopolises. Helicopter rotations, such as between Nice and Monaco, could very easily be carried out autonomously in the coming years. Prices could also plummet, as currently, the same 7-minute flight between France and the Principality costs 195 euros per person or 790 euros for private helicopter charter.

Regarding noise pollution, Airbus mentions a level of 70 decibels upon landing, equivalent to a conversation between two people. In that sense, it sounds a bit like science fiction…

ALSO READ: Hyundai unveiled its first eVTOL at CES in Las Vegas