Airbus flew its unusual helicopter-airplane hybrid referred to as Racer for the first time in Marseille, France on Monday. The aerospace manufacturer categorizes the plane as a high-speed compound helicopter demonstrator. Unlike standard helicopters, the Racer options mounted wings with management surfaces and propulsive propellers. The maiden flight was solely half-hour lengthy however Airbus goals to open the Racer’s flight envelope over the subsequent two years as growth continues.
As its identify implies, the Racer is able to reaching extremely excessive speeds for a helicopter due to its propeller configuration. Airbus acknowledged the compound helicopter’s present cruising pace is 248.5 miles per hour, lower than 1 mph behind the present world report held by the Westland Lynx. However, gas effectivity was the impetus for this system’s existence. Julien Guitton, the top of Airbus’ Racer program, said:
“The aim of the Racer is not to go as fast as possible, but to offer enhanced operational capabilities at the right price for missions where speed can really be an asset. When we ask end users whether high speeds are of interest to them, the answer is invariably ‘yes, but’. Speed at any price, without taking into account the economic and environmental impact, is of no interest to anyone.”
The wing mounted to the Racer gives 40 p.c of the full raise, permitting for what Airbus is asking Eco-Mode. The Racer can shut off one in every of its two engines in flight to cut back gas consumption by 20 p.c. While it’s a slower flight mode, the plane would nonetheless be flying sooner than a standard helicopter. The second engine can be restarted instantly if needed. Airbus claims that the Racer is extra comfy to fly in due to the decreased vibrations brought on by the principle rotor.
Aviation’s future appears to be heading within the route of helicopter journey changing into much more commonplace. Airlines are hoping to offer commuter services from metropolis facilities to airports to passengers inside a number of years. Those plans focus on semi-autonomous eVTOL plane. While electrical helicopters have come a great distance, the effectivity features promised by the Racer’s improvements may show helpful for different plane.
A version of this article was originally published on Jalopnik.