Executives from Jetson Corporation Engaged in eVTOL Competition
Revamped Article:
At the helm this month, Jetson's eVTOL aircraft crew takes on the world's first eVTOL race, a high-flying competition that's gained quite a buzz.
This thrilling race sees Jetson CEO Stéphan D'haene, CTO Tomasz Patan, and chief pilot Andrea Spresian in action. It comes hot on the heels of the debut flight of their very first production Jetson One, SN1, which fought it out against a couple of preproduction demonstration aircraft last time around, finishing a close second.
Jetson One, unlike traditional eVTOL air taxis, is a single-seater built for recreational use, resembling Pivotal's Helix. The best part? With the U.S. aiming to certify it as a Part 103 ultralight, no pilot's license is needed to fly it in the States.
The sleek design boasts a flight computer, a four-axis joystick, and eight electric motors, making it a speed demon capable of 55 knots and a flight time of around 20 minutes. Safety is paramount, with race-car-style safety features like a safety cell and weight and height limitations for pilots.
Some of these eVTOL innovations may remain a pipe dream, but with the promise of Jetson One delivery by 2027, you can secure your spot now. The company requires an $8,000 nonrefundable down payment and a $120,000 final payment upon delivery. Scramble to book your 2025 or 2026 production slot, as they've already sold out! Most buyers hail from the U.S. And guess what? The Jetson One has made its digital debut in the latest version of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
Jetson constructs its aircraft in its production and research facility in Arezzo, Italy, but it's already eyeing expansion stateside, with an office set up in Palo Alto, California.
A racing streak runs deep for Jetson. Last December, the team unveiled custom-designed pylons, about 26 feet tall, adorned with visibility markers. They put these to the test during the race in Italy.
"This event is proof of the dedication and hard work of our team, and it marks the start of exciting advancements in the future of urban air mobility," D'haene commented.
The trio is itching to jump back into the pilot's seat, as "organizers worldwide" extend invitations for them to participate in subsequent competitions.
If you're a racing enthusiast, your next opportunity to catch an eVTOL race could be in October. Mark your calendars for the revived Pulitzer Trophy, an open-to-the-public event, taking place at Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport’s NAAMCE in Ohio.
Featuring 24 teams competing over three days, it'll also offer eVTOL "experience flights" for attendees, welcoming electric aircraft, including experimental models if granted proper FAA approvals. With all-electric aircraft eligible to participate, it's anyone's game!
So, gear up for the future of flying sports, as eVTOL races are taking off, and who knows, you might just catch Jetson One in action!
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- The Jetson One, Jetson's first production eVTOL aircraft, recently showcased its capabilities in the world's first eVTOL race.
- In the U.S., the Jetson One will be certified as a Part 103 ultralight, allowing anyone to fly it without a pilot's license.
- With a sleek design featuring a flight computer, four-axis joystick, and eight electric motors, the Jetson One can reach speeds of up to 55 knots and has a flight time of around 20 minutes.
- The company is planning to expand its operations to the United States, with an office already set up in Palo Alto, California.
- The Jetson team is eager to participate in subsequent eVTOL competitions, with invitations being extended by organizers worldwide.
- In October, the Pulitzer Trophy, an open-to-the-public eVTOL race, will take place at Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport's NAAMCE in Ohio, featuring 24 teams and offering eVTOL experience flights for attendees.
- With the rising popularity of eVTOL races, the future of flying sports is indeed taking off, and potential spectators should sign up for updates on the latest developments in the industry, technology, and finance, especially those related to the aerospace sector.