CycloTech is introducing a new flying vehicle, the BlackBird demonstrator, that features a new propulsion system for any type of manned or unmanned aircraft but especially for flying cars. The company is developing and using a technology that sets completely new standards in its application.
Innovative Technology: The BlackBird demonstrator shows the potential of the CycloRotor technology in aviation. This propulsion system is the only system that can control the thrust vector in strength and direction in a full circular path (360°).
Superior Manoeuvrability: Six 7th generation CycloRotors enable vertical take-off and landing, as well as precise control in all directions, including parallel parking and mid-air braking/deceleration.
Maximum Passenger Comfort: The unique decoupling of the flight path and aircraft orientation ensures stability and a high level of passenger comfort, even in challenging conditions.
First Flight 2025: The first flight of the electrically powered demonstrator is planned for the first quarter of 2025.
‘CycloTech is the only company in the world currently working on the commercial application of CycloRotors as the main propulsion system,’ says Hans-Georg Kinsky, CEO of CycloTech. ’We are positioning ourselves as a supplier of drive systems for electric flight. With our BlackBird, we are showing how this innovative technology will open up the market for flying cars.’
The new BlackBird demonstrator, with a maximum take-off weight of 340 kg, is now in development and expected to be completed by the end of 2024. It will build on the knowledge gained from over 800 successful flights of CycloTech’s first-generation flight demonstrator.
CycloTech Makes Flying Cars Possible
Safety is of the utmost importance in aviation. An engine failure is a challenge for all aircraft. ‘That’s why we at CycloTech use at least six CycloRotors to ensure that the aircraft can continue to fly in a controlled manner in the event of an engine failure,’ explains Kinsky.
In addition, the 360° thrust vector control enables the aircraft to brake and stop in mid-air, thus increasing control and safety, especially in busy airspace. The 2 CycloRotors in the longitudinal axis of the aircraft enable lateral flight without banking the aircraft and increased manoeuvrability.
CycloRotors enable the construction of compact aircraft that are half the size of those with propellers or rotors, which means that no special infrastructure is required and that they can be more easily integrated into the current domestic environment.
The BlackBird demonstrator showcases the capabilities of the 7th generation CycloRotor, offering precise control, vertical take-off and landing, and maximum stability at different pitch angles. With a pitch angle of up to 30 degrees while hovering, the BlackBird is suitable for a wide range of applications.
Technical Highlights of the BlackBird:
The flight demonstrator is about three quarters of the size of the first possible flying car (such as the CruiseUp – FactSheet / Video link )
- Six electrically driven 7th generation CycloRotors
- 360-degree manoeuvrability
- Dimensions: length 4.9 m, width 2.3 m, height 2.0 m
- Maximum take-off weight: 340 kg
- Flight speed: up to 120 km/h
- Braking and stopping mid-flight
- Pitch angle in Hover: up to 30°
- Precision landing even in adverse weather conditions
- Landing on inclined surfaces
This press release was prepared and distributed by CycloTech.