Airbus flew the strange helicopter-plane hybrid called Racer for the first time in Marseille, France on Monday. Aerospace manufacturer aircraft classification as a complex high-speed helicopter demonstration. Unlike conventional helicopters, the Racer has fixed wings with control surfaces and thrusters. The first flight lasted just 30 minutes but Airbus aims to expand the Racer’s flight range over the next two years as development continues.
As its name suggests, the Racer is capable of reaching extremely high speeds for a helicopter thanks to its rotor configuration. Airbus says the complex helicopter’s current cruising speed is 248.5 miles per hour, less than 1 mph short of the current world record held by the Westland Lynx. However, fuel efficiency is the driving force behind the program’s existence. Julien Guitton, head of Airbus’ Racer program, speak:
“The purpose of the Racer is not to go as fast as possible but to provide enhanced performance capabilities at a price that makes sense for missions where speed can really be an asset. When we ask end users whether they care about high speeds, the answer is always “yes, but.” Speed at all costs without considering the economic and environmental impact is of no interest to anyone.”
The Racer’s mounted wing provides 40% of total lift, allowing for what Airbus calls Eco Mode. Racer can turn off either engine in flight to reduce fuel consumption by 20%. Even though it’s in a slower flight mode, the plane still flies faster than a conventional helicopter. The second engine can also be restarted immediately If necessary. Airbus claims that the Racer is more comfortable to fly because vibrations caused by the main rotor are reduced.
The future of aviation seems to be moving in the direction of helicopter travel becoming more and more popular. Airlines are hoping to provide travel services from city center to airport to passengers within a few years. Those plans revolve around semi-autonomous eVTOL aircraft. While electric helicopters have come a long way, the efficiency gains from Racer’s innovations promise to be useful for other aircraft.
