Electric aircraft manufacturer Eve Air Mobility has unveiled its first full-scale electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) prototype at the 45th Farnborough Airshow. The Brazilian company, which is a subsidiary of global aerospace manufacturer Embraer, is assembling the aircraft in its test facility out of Gaviao Peixoto, in Sao Paulo State.
"Our global team of engineers [has] shown exceptional dedication and expertise to successfully assemble our first full-scale eVTOL prototype," said CEO Johann Bordais in a statement released by Eve.
"This is a significant milestone that underscores our commitment to safety, accessibility and innovation. As we now turn our attention toward the preparation of a rigorous testing campaign, we are not just creating an aircraft, we're building a comprehensive ecosystem of solutions that will shape the future of the Advanced Air Mobility industry."
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Eve’s aircraft utilizes eight dedicated propellers for vertical flight and fixed wings to fly in cruise, with no change in the position of these components during flight. An electric pusher powered by dual electric motors provides propulsion redundancy, intending to ensure the highest levels of performance, safety and dispatch reliability and low cost of operation.
Eve confirmed that as its eVTOL enters into the next phase of development, the prototype has already undergone a series of comprehensive tests to assess the aircraft’s operation and performance, from its flight capabilities to safety features.
"This extensive testing phase begins the next fundamental step in our journey," continued Bordais. "It ensures that our eVTOL meets the high standards and expectations we've set for performance and safety."
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Through its relationship with its parent company, the world’s third-largest aircraft manufacturer, Eve is able to take advantage of Embraer’s 55 years of experience developing, designing, certifying and producing aircraft as Eve develops its eVTOL. In addition to the roll-out of its prototype, Eve also announced that it has completed the selection of the primary suppliers for its eVTOL aircraft, with letters of intent for 2,900 eVTOL.
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