Meet the Hybrid eSTOL, a Whole New Category of Electric Aircraft – Robb Report

Swiss manufacturer Manta has taken a turn at traditional eVTOL aircraft, designed to climb up and down like helicopters. The single-seat ANN1 and the double-seat Ann2 are actually eSTOLs – the S stands for ‘short-area’ – performing vertical take-offs and landings, but they can also land like conventional aircraft on runways of just 100 meters.

The benefits of the new design include greater range and charge value, as using even a very short runway consumes much less battery power than going vertical. The ANNs also have small fuel-powered generators that generate electricity to keep the batteries longer and recharge faster.

Apart from the greater range, it is probably the nicest of any of the new electric planes, as they are also designed for joyful riding. The lightweight composite carbon frame and dual-wing, V-tail design generate more speed while improving climbing performance and maneuverability.

Four electric fans attached to the wings tilt to direct the thrust, and recent tests on a ten-foot scale model show that they will push the new Mantas to a speed of 186 km / h with a range of 373 mile.

The ANN1 single seat in particular is designed for extreme performance and aimed at ‘personal mobility’, and the company describes it as a ‘racer craft’. This is rare in the eVTOL world, where these futuristic vessels are embarking on commercial objectives, whether regional transportation or air taxi service. Usually, the idea of ​​individual ownership is a distant consideration.

Although Manta provides practical applications for its eVTOLs, including environmental, police, EMT and search and rescue operations, its sleek, black ANN2 looks like it would be an exceptional executive shuttle. Other models are also envisaged that could serve as a shuttle between superyachts and landing sites on the shore.

Manta looks forward to a world where flying bait can take to the skies in an electrically driven turn through the clouds.