Canadian eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) vehicle manufacturer Horizon Aircraft has successfully conducted hundreds of flight tests with its large-scale prototype, the Cavorite X7. This hybrid eVTOL vehicle is designed to take off vertically and then transition to conventional airplane flight. The Cavorite X7, which seats seven, is slated for completion by 2026.
In addition to flight testing, Horizon is developing digital twin technology to facilitate the rapid testing of thousands of virtual flight scenarios, with the prototype already nearing full transition speed. The Cavorite X7 is engineered to achieve speeds nearly double those of traditional helicopters, boasting a top speed of 250 mph and a range of 500 miles.
âI am extremely proud of the pace of our full-scale aircraft systems development program, the world-class team weâre building, and the game-changing technology that weâre bringing to advanced air mobility,â said Brandon Robinson, CEO of Horizon. He emphasized the companyâs focus on creating a robust eVTOL aircraft capable of operating in adverse weather and challenging conditions, stating, âThis strategy is gaining strong traction with operators, driving substantial demand.â
Horizon has validated its patent-pending yaw control system, a critical element of the vehicleâs wing technology. The Cavorite X7 is undergoing a flight-testing program governed by Transport Canadaâs Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC). According to the company, the Cavorite X7 will be able to fly faster and carry more cargo than other electric aerial vehicles currently in development.
The unique wing system allows the Cavorite X7 to operate primarily in a configuration resembling a conventional airplane. The hybrid electric power system is designed to charge its batteries during flight. The wings are equipped with 14 lift fans that provide thrust for vertical takeoff. After ascent, sliding panels conceal the fans, enabling the X7 to fly like a traditional aircraft. For landing, the vehicle can either use a standard runway or engage the fans to land on a helipad or vertiport.
Horizon Aircraft has also signed a letter of intent with JetSetGo, an Indian regional air transport company, for the sale of up to 100 Cavorite X7 vehicles, valued at approximately $500 million.
