Ready for Take-Off: The Future of eVTOL Aircraft

What does the future of eVTOL aircraft look like? Let’s talk about it.

It might sound like a science fiction movie plot: small electric aircraft traversing the skies for urban air mobility, emergency services, cargo delivery, and more. Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft are rapidly becoming a reality, and several companies are currently developing prototypes. Discover how Roush is shaping the future of eVTOL development and commercialization.

What is an eVTOL aircraft?

An eVTOL aircraft is a compact, electric-powered vehicle designed to take off, hover, and land vertically. It’s similar to a helicopter, but with the efficiency and environmental benefits of electric propulsion. Typically envisioned for urban mobility and short-distance air travel, these aircraft provide an aerial transportation solution that bypasses traffic congestion on the ground. They are expected to be quiet, energy-efficient, and capable of short-range flights.

The widespread commercialization of eVTOL aircraft is likely in the distant future. But innovative companies like Roush are bringing us closer to a new-age reality.

How is Roush making an impact on the future of eVTOL aircraft?

Roush supports customers in the aerospace and mobility industries with expertise in advanced composites, computer-aided engineering, creative design, innovative prototyping, and more. For customers in the eVTOL space, we focus primarily on lightweighting, interior cabin design, electric motor systems, and battery technologies. These areas of expertise are particularly important for any eVTOL that performs vertical take-off maneuvers.

Roush’s involvement with eVTOL manufacturers ensures that these aircraft are developed efficiently while upholding reliability and safety standards. Bringing any commercialized solution to market requires meeting stringent regulations for eventual use in the real world. Explore a few of our capabilities to learn more. 

Advanced Composites

Design, material evaluation, testing, and tooling are critically important to the structure, capabilities, and performance of an eVTOL.

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAD)

Our CAD engineering capabilities are vast, including Class A surfacing, packaging/feasibility, 3D solid modeling, and 2D and 3D tolerance. We use the latest software like NX, Creo, CATIA, and SOLIDWORKS to sculpt, render, and animate across multiple formats.

Prototyping

Our prototyping services include model development, metal fabrication, advanced composites, engine development, and more. We even model the unique components needed for eVTOL development.

Lightweighting

The air is thinner at higher altitudes, requiring eVTOLs to produce more lift while using less energy. Lightweight materials are critical in achieving the necessary balance.

Creative Design + Cabin Interiors

eVTOLs must be designed for everyday passengers. Our creative team has worked with many experience-focused companies to design and build cabin interiors that feel modern, elevated, and beautifully functional.  

We believe in dreaming big. We are constantly inspired by customers who share our vision for transforming the way we move.

Our goal at Roush? To keep playing a role in revolutionizing the entire landscape of urban air mobility, logistics, and commercial aviation. Whether it’s moving goods or people, or connecting communities, we are excited to work with forward-thinking customers who want eVTOLs to become a commercialized reality.