The Dragon 8-rotor aircraft has a maximum payload of 113 kg, a maximum flight time of approximately 20 minutes, and speeds of up to 101 km/h.
The American helicopter manufacturer RotorX is entering the competition for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) personal aircraft with its multi-rotor model named Dragon, as reported by New Atlas on December 8.
Design of the Dragon personal aircraft. (Photo: RotorX)
The Dragon has a maximum payload capacity of 113 kg and can be controlled manually (via a joystick), hover autonomously, and land automatically. The aircraft features a coaxial 8-rotor structure, equipped with a 16 kW electric motor for each rotor. For safety, RotorX has included a parachute in the aircraft’s design. The pilot does not need a license to operate this vehicle.
Similar to the Jetson One, the eVTOL model from Swedish company Jetson Aero, the Dragon also has a maximum flight time of about 20 minutes and can reach speeds of up to 101 km/h. Another similarity is that the Dragon will be sold as a kit, including tools and written and video instructions for users to assemble it. Additionally, users can visit the Advanced Tactics facility in California to assemble their aircraft under expert supervision and receive training on how to operate the eVTOL.
RotorX plans to start deliveries to customers in August 2023. While the Jetson One is priced at $92,000, the expected selling price of the Dragon is $99,000. However, RotorX is accepting pre-orders with a deposit of $19,500, offering an initial sale price of only $85,000.
