Vertical Aerospace Unveils Electric Flying Taxi in New York, Aiming to Democratize Urban Air Mobility
Vertical Aerospace, a UK-based company, showcased its Valo electric aircraft in Manhattan, targeting affordable urban air travel. The six-passenger vehicle features a 50-foot wingspan and eight rotors for vertical takeoff, distinguishing it from competitors. Chairman Dómhnal Slattery emphasized the goal of moving beyond luxury helicopter services: "We want to democratize urban air mobility."
The Valo operates entirely on electricity, offering quieter flights with a 100-mile range. Priced comparably to Uber Black per seat, the model could open mass-market adoption. Vertical Aerospace plans for frequent short-hop operations rather than extended journeys, leveraging rapid charging cycles.