British startup AltoVolo has unveiled Sigma, a futuristic flying machine with vertical takeoff and near-silent jet engines
The industry of personal flying vehicles is rapidly developing.
A few days ago, we reported on the Star Wars speeder bikes are no longer fantasy: Polish engineer unveils innovative flying vehicle Volonaut Airbike developed by Polish engineer Tomasz Patan, but it is designed for one person. And British startup AltoVolo announced a flying vehicle Sigma, which is able to quickly and safely transport three passengers through the air.
Here's What We Know
The developers from AltoVolo position the Sigma as a "vertical hybrid jet aircraft", based on a patented system of tilting jet engines, which operate 80 per cent quieter than helicopters, provide speeds of up to 354 km/h with a range of up to 821 km.
Engineers have taken care of the safety of the flying device: Sigma is designed in such a way as to maintain a stable flight position even in case of failure of one engine, but a parachute is provided just in case.
The reliability of the device has been confirmed by experts. Authoritative aerodynamics expert Dr Richard E. Brown of Sophrodyne Aerospace praised Sigma's design and engineering solutions.
Ansys, a renowned provider of modelling software used by Formula 1 teams in particular, was involved in the development of the device. The Sigma autonomous driving system is supplied by the Spanish company Embention.
Thanks to its compact dimensions (4.8 metres wide and weighing 980kg), Sigma can land in a wide range of locations, including driveways, rooftops and yachts.
The authors of the concept rely on a cost-effective strategy that will not only accelerate Sigma's market entry, but also change the industry, guaranteeing potential investors a quick profit.
In early July, AltoVolo will begin accepting applications for the Sigma, but the start date of sales and the cost of the futuristic transport has not yet been announced.
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Source: Electriccarsreport