Flying Car News, December 30
Blimps Disrupt Drone Inspections
This week’s top Flying Car News: Will blimps disrupt the drone inspection industry? Did a UK startup just unveil a new passenger drone? Will the FAA pave the way for delivery drones in the U.S.? Discover the answers to these questions, and more!
Flying cars will be a significant part of the future of transportation. Recent advancements in drone technology, electric VTOL aircraft, and autonomous systems have paved the way for an aerial transportation revolution. We created the Udacity Flying Car News Series, to ensure you stay up-to-date on all the latest Flying Car and Autonomous Aircraft stories!
Blimps Disrupt Drone Inspections
Mothership Aeronautics is creating an autonomous solar-powered long distance blimp which they hope will disrupt the drone inspection industry.
“In the demonstration, the Scout achieved Infinity Cruise: a flight in which more power is generated by the solar panels than is needed to propel the aircraft. Infinity Cruise is the first step towards Aerial Persistence and a cornerstone upon which Mothership will develop its technology.”
Passenger Drone
UK company Autonomous flight announced passenger drone Y6S, which can carry two passengers up to 70 mph.
“The concept vehicle is expected to be unveiled in March 2018 with manned test flights planned for September, making Autonomous Flight the first company in the UK to join the burgeoning global market of passenger drones, better known as electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, or VTOLs.”
Drone Identification
The FAA released a report with recommendations on the best way to identify flying drones, effectively paving the way for delivery drones in the U.S.
“The report recommends that drones broadcast identifying information to local receivers, which is the ‘electronic license plate’ technology in DJI’s new AeroScope system for identifying airborne drones. This imposes the fewest burdens on drone owners and pilots, while building in protections for their privacy.”
Retro Flying Car
Lazzarini Design has created a concept retro flying car called the Hover Coupe modeled after luxury cars of the 1920s.
“Lazzarini claims these jets could hypothetically allow the Hover Coupe to reach speeds exceeding 550 mph (342 mph). The position of the jet engines would also give it drone-like maneuverability, something you’d need in a crowded city skyline full of flying cars.”
Autonomous Jet Refueling
Boeing unveiled the MQ-25 Stingray aerial tanker which will be able to carry 15000 pounds of fuel and autonomously refuel fighters after taking off from an aircraft carrier.
“Boeing pulled back the curtain on an autonomous refueling plane designed to refuel U.S. Navy fighter jets in midair to extend their range.”
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