Airbus rolled out the “NextGen” a CityAirbus urban air mobility (UAM) prototype at a flight test center in Germany for its maiden flight in 2024. The four seater eVTOL air mobility concept is the successor to two early prototypes that were phased out in 2021.
NextGen is an all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) concept and has a noticeable wing planform for a lift and cruise concept. The vehicle is suitable for urban inter-city commute, with an operational range of 80 km. The cruise speed of the eVTOL is 120 kph.
The CityAirbus NextGen has a robust configuration consisting of 8 fully electrical rotors, fixed wings with an approximate 12 meter wing span, and V-tail. The vehicle will have a minimal acoustic signature for an urban environment. According to Airbus, significant focus is given to the safety of passengers in vehicle design and operations. Vehicles shall be in full compliance with the highest safety standards, including the stringent requirements of the EASA SC-VTOL Enhanced Category.