I’m not really sure about the status of this Russian flying car/eVTOL, but the shape is wild.
From Bartini’s site: ‘It has a carrying body that provides aerodynamic lift in cruise mode after the aircraft takes-off, gains ground speed and tilts the rotors perpendicular to the ground. The aircraft is designed to fly at 300 km/hr (162 knots). Hydrogen fuel cell modification shall cover the distance of up to 550 km over almost 2 hours, while lithium battery modification will range 150 km on 30 minutes of flight. At least double redundancy of power and units, duplication of nodes, very few moving parts, and ducts around the blades shall result in ultimate safety. The configuration allows for considerable noise control. The configuration is intended to serve the interests of the three major stakeholders: the city, the operator, and the passenger. The aircraft shall operate within a wide variety of perimeter variables. Engineering and design excellence is achieved through strong collaboration across aircraft engineering, automotive and mobility systems design, urban planning, air traffic management and ground infrastructure operations.’
The retro-futuristic chic of the design got my attention, that’s for sure.
It is powered by hydrogen fuel cells (we’ve heard about these recently), the vehicle will have up to four times the range of a battery powered modification. This means longer range, and city to city flights. They’ve teamed up with the automotive engineers to meld aviation safety with the ultimate passenger comfort of an automobile.
The aerodynamically shaped cabin provides lift for additional flight efficiency (thus lower drag), makes the aircraft elegant and its interiors even more spacious. (Like a futuristic bubble car!) Specifically designed and meticulously positioned windows offer ultra wide views. Propellers are shrouded and safe; electric propulsion is environmentally friendly.
These features will ensure the safer, faster, and cleaner commute, which we all dream about. Yes, and we will continue to dream until the Bartini becomes a reality. Given the war and all that - it may not be any time soon…