Image: Workhorse Group
Workhorse Group has announced that it has started the formal process to sell its SureFly hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) multi-copter. SureFly is the first manned aircraft developed by the company, which designs and builds electric and hybrid vehicles. The aircraft completed its first untethered test flight last April and the FAA accepted Workhorse’s applicationfor type certification in June 2018.
“Now that SureFly is doing hover test flights and has entered into the type certification process with the FAA, we believe it is the ideal time to find a suitable partner or buyer that wishes to lead the eVTOL race,” said Workhorse CEO Stephen Burns. “Finding a suitable partner for SureFly will enable Workhorse to continue focusing on its N-GEN electric delivery truck platform as well as our W-15 Electric Pickup Truck.”
The company previously stated that it was hoping to have the aircraft certificated by the end of 2020 with a target price of under $200,000. The piston version of the eight-motor SureFly seats two and has a maximum speed of 70 MPH, 70-mile range and 400-pound useful load. Its gas generator is paired with two lithium battery packs, which provide five minutes of backup power. A turbine version of the aircraft is also in development.
