Experience the excitement of eVTOL racing.

Jetson, a Swedish startup, has recently demonstrated what many are calling the start of the world's first eVTOL air racing.

Enter the giveaway by signing up for my free newsletter.

Airspeeder's ambitions

Since 2017, Airspeeder has been gaining traction with their innovative eVTOL aircraft, aiming to organize world championship races. Currently, their races feature remote-controlled vehicles, with pilots safely on the ground. However, Jetson has recently shown a crewed flight around a racing pylon, although only with one aircraft.

The Jetson One: A game changer

The Jetson One is the star of this show, a personal eVTOL designed for agility and performance. In a recent video, Patan showcases the aircraft's nimble capabilities by navigating around a 26-foot-tall pylon. Although this demonstration does not constitute a full race, it offers a tantalizing preview of what eVTOL racing could look like. Here are some key features of the Jetson One.

• Dimensions: 8.86 x 5.25 x 3.67 feet
• Top speed: Software-limited to 63 mph
• Flight time: 20 minutes per charge
• Power source: High-discharge Li-ion batteries
• Control: Joystick-operated
• Maximum altitude: Over 1,500 feet (~460 m)
• Pilot requirements: No license needed in the U.S.

Market response and future plans

The Jetson One has received an impressive market response, with the company already confirming sales of over 470 units and accepting orders for the 2026 batch. To reserve your spot, you must make a non-refundable deposit of $8,000, with the total cost coming in at $128,000.

The Jetson eVTOL is user-friendly, with pilots being able to master the aircraft in under 60 minutes of flight practice, along with eight simulator sessions. This accessibility could revolutionize the personal aviation market.

Safety and regulatory considerations

The possibility of personal eVTOLs and air racing is exciting, but it also brings up crucial safety and regulatory concerns. Jetson has implemented various safety measures, including:

• A race car-inspired safety cell design
• The ability to fly safely with the loss of one motor
• Hands-free hover and emergency functions
• A ballistic parachute with rapid deployment

Jetson has secured two flight permits in Italy for personal eVTOL travel in uncontrolled airspace in fall 2023, but racing regulations are still undefined.

The competition: Airspeeder and beyond

Notably, Airspeeder is also making strides in the eVTOL industry. They have established teams and hosted aerial events, although they are currently using remote-controlled vehicles. Their aircraft boasts impressive specifications, such as a top speed of 124 mph and a power-to-weight ratio comparable to Formula 1 cars.

Kurt's key takeaways

The demonstration by Jetson signifies a major advancement in the development of personal aviation and air racing. Although it is not yet a complete race, it represents a significant step towards a future where eVTOL racing could become a reality. As we gaze upwards, it is evident that the competition for eVTOL dominance is just getting started.

What are your thoughts on the future of eVTOL racing and personal aviation after reading about Jetson and Airspeeder? Please share your opinions by writing to Cyberguy.com/Contact.

To receive my tech tips and security alerts, sign up for my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter at Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.