Pipistrel has unveiled its eVTOL aircraft, which comes in two models that are capable of delivering cargo over certain distances, depending on the payload. (Image Credit: Pipistrel)
Pipistrel, a Slovenian aircraft manufacturer, has recently unveiled its unmanned eVTOL aircraft with hybrid propulsion for cargo delivery flights. Perhaps one of the best features of the Nuuva series is its ability to take off and land vertically. It also runs on electricity and uses an internal combustion engine for the flight. Pipistrel is already taking orders for the Nuuva series. Prices have not been announced yet, but customers can expect the V20 by 2021. Meanwhile, the company is targeting the V300 to enter service in the second half of 2023.
The Nuuva models use eight Pipistrel electric engines powered by batteries to move the eight horizontal propellers that provide vertical thrust. A horizontal thrust is provided by a rear pusher prop, which is powered by an internal combustion engine.
Both models run on batteries and an internal combustion engine. Each aircraft is also autonomous and uses a self-monitoring system in case an issue arises in mid-flight. (Image Credit: Pipistrel)
Measuring 33 ft long and 10 feet tall with a 43.33 ft wingspan, the V300 has a 186-mile range when it carries a 660-lb payload on a full 108 US-gal tank of fuel. According to Pipistrel, it can travel as far as 1,553 miles when it carries a 110-lb payload. It's also capable of carrying 1,014 lb without taking much range into account. It doesn't need to use a takeoff or landing strip or runway. Cargo can be fastened using nets and straps. The tandem wings and a fly-by-wire system make it easier for the aircraft to stay aerodynamic and stable while it maintains a small landing ellipse.
It's also 10 times less expensive to own a V300 model rather than a traditional helicopter since it uses less moving parts and the maintenance costs are lower.
Meanwhile, the V20, which is intended for lighter-payload last-mile deliveries, measures 15 ft long and is capable of hauling 44.09 lb-payloads while flying a distance of 155 miles.
Batteries can be recharged by connecting them into Pipistrel's charging station, developed with Green Motion, an electric vehicle charging station maker based in Switzerland.
Both the V300 and V20 models fly autonomously, using GPS and onboard sensors to navigate a preprogrammed flight route. It can also monitor itself in case there are any issues mid-flight. If needed, an operator stationed on the ground can remotely take control of the aircraft at any time.
The drones can deliver groceries and essential household items to customers in a safe and quiet approach. (Image Credit: Walmart)
Walmart has announced plans to start a pilot program with Flytrex, a drone company, to deliver groceries and essential household items from its stores in Fayetteville, NC. Flytrex has already received FAA approval to carry deliveries in North Carolina.
The program's first task is to collect information for future service so that drones won't be delivering items just yet. "The drones, which are controlled over the cloud using a smart and easy control dashboard, will help us gain valuable insight into the customer and associate experience — from picking and packing to takeoff and delivery," said Tom Ward, Walmart senior VP.
The drones have a payload of 6.6 pounds and can ascend up to 380 feet over a distance of 3.5 miles at a speed of up to 32 mph. To ensure a quiet and safe delivery, the drones use a wire release mechanism to bring down fastened delivery boxes from 80 feet in the air.
They will also take flight under the FAA's part 107 rules, requiring the drone to stay in the line of sight and be controlled by a remote pilot. Additionally, the FFA has granted more advanced Part 135 air carrier certificates to both Amazon and Google's Wing Aviation, allowing drones to make deliveries beyond the line of sight. Flytrex has also received approval for a parachute safety system, potentially paving the way to gain permission to fly over populated areas.
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