Beta Technologies Unveils Electric Passenger Aircraft
Beta Technologies has unveiled the new electric aircraft in its lineup, a passenger version of its vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) and fixed-wing aircraft.
eVTOL vehicles do not rely on a runway, whereas fixed-wing aircraft do.
The startup is looking to achieve electric flight in a slightly different way than others in the industry.
Unlike competitors Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation, Beta Technologies doesn't want to operate a network of urban air taxis, but rather focuses on manufacturing electric aircraft and providing integrated cargo solutions, aiming to be a provider of these technologies to other airlines and cargo companies.
Beta Technologies has so far secured clients in defense, cargo delivery and medical logistics with a plan to begin operating in those markets by 2025.
Customers rely on Beta Technologies’ charging network of 34 active locations, with more than 50 locations under development.
“Carrying passengers by air is part of the plan,” the company said. “We designed everything on the aircraft from a safety standpoint and to create space for passengers. It made sense from a certification and customer acquisition perspective to focus on medical services and cargo first and then move on to passengers.”
Beta Technologies has not yet built a full passenger-carrying prototype, though the concept is based on the same design and engineering as its existing models, providing a streamlined path to certification, manufacturing and marketing.
The notable differences are that the passenger version has extra windows so people can look out, and the interior features five seats plus a cockpit, luggage compartment and some accessories for people in the back to be comfortable, such as light switches and ventilation controls.
All versions can carry about 635 kg, and the company's aircraft have been tested for cargo missions for the military, and the startup has more flight hours than any other company in the industry.
The company believes it could have hundreds of cargo planes flying tens of thousands of hours, providing the critical aviation confidence in the safety of a product before it starts carrying passengers.
The company estimates its aircraft are still about 14 months away from FAA certification.
Beta Technologies has received approval to allow the startup to fly with potential customers so pilots can test and evaluate the aircraft.