It’s quite surprising that we haven’t yet invented flying motorcycles, despite making all the technological advancements in modern-day motorcycles. However there are several automotive companies that are taking this idea very seriously. One such company among them is UDX—Unlimited Drone experience. It is a Czech firm aiming to revolutionize personal mobility. This time with the Airwolf. It is a two-seat, electric, vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle developed by the UDX. If the Airwolf becomes a reality, it could be one of the most thrilling personal EV transportation innovations ever.
Imagine scaling up the standard recreational drone you might have sitting in your shed, workshop, or garage to a size where you can actually ride it. That’s the real essence of UDX’s Airwolf concept. It can take off and land vertically like a conventional drone, also it cruises at reasonable speeds, and covers significant distances for riders. However, the Airwolf is far more sophisticated than a DJI drone. It is designed to carry not one but two passengers and ensure a strong focus on safety. UDX is taking the whole safety aspect too seriously. This safety is largely provided by the eVTOL’s maneuverability, which comes from its tilting propulsion pods. These pods contain high-speed propellers encased in housings to prevent contact with the outside world.
For power and performance it features the combined output of the four propulsion pods that is said to be 430 horsepower. Each pod can be controlled individually, which gives the Airwolf “hummingbird-like agility,” according to UDX. This agility should make vertical takeoffs and landings straightforward and efficient.
But what about covering distances? Each propulsion pod is held in place by structural stanchions that are contoured and shaped like wings. According to UDX these wings generate about 50 percent of forward-flight lift, enhancing both efficiency and range.
UDX claims that the Airwolf can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in just three seconds and hit a top speed of 142 miles per hour. However, its hefty 639-pound build limits it to 25 minutes of flight time, covering just 41 miles. This makes it more of a high-tech toy than a practical transportation solution.
It sounds thrilling to hear but it’s important to temper expectations. Currently the Airwolf is more than just a concept, UDX is still only testing a scale model of the eVTOL. This model even features a little action figure to add a touch of authenticity.
UDX has even set a price tag for the finished product—$320,000 USD. That’s supercar money, but given its unique capabilities, it’s easy to see why there could be a market for it. If the Airwolf becomes a reality, I wouldn’t be surprised if it sells like hotcakes. After all, who wouldn’t want to feel like a low-flying fighter jet pilot, even if just for a short trip?
