Boeing has confirmed a US$450 million investment in the company Wisk Aero, the result of a joint venture with air taxi specialist Kitty Wawk, for the development of a new eVTOL (Electric Vertical Take-Off Vehicle).
In a statement, Wisk Aero revealed that the financial contribution will allow it to allocate a larger workforce to the electric flying car project, which promises to be revolutionary.
The process for certification of the vehicle with the FAA can take five years, time that the company and the 350 employees will have to get it ready to fly, in addition to preparing the entire manufacturing force of the company, since the idea is for large-scale production. scale — no wonder Boeing is involved.
Want to stay on top of the best tech news of the day? Access and subscribe to our new youtube channel, Kenyannews News. Every day a summary of the main news from the tech world for you!
“With this investment, we are reaffirming our belief in Wisk’s business and the importance of its work in pioneering all-electric, AI-driven and autonomous capability for the aerospace industry,” said Mark Allen, chief strategy officer, Boeing.
Wisk’s expectation is that, when available in the global market, its flying cars will transport 40 million passengers in 20 cities, totaling more than 14 million flight hours.
What is the Wisk Aero flying car like?
Still without an official name, Wisk’s flying car is still undergoing tests and that’s why it has relatively modest numbers of autonomy and speed. What is known, however, is that its propulsion will be electric, in addition to the ability to operate 100% autonomously.
According to the brand, the vehicle can fly for up to 40 kilometers on a charge, reaching a maximum speed of 160 km/h. In all, there are 12 independent rotors that ensure greater safety for occupants.
The operational ceiling is 1,500 meters and the passenger limit has not yet been revealed, but due to the small size (6 meters in length), it should be a maximum of five people. There is also a safety device with a parachute, in case of need.
