If you’ve ever wondered what a helicopter with multiple rotors would be like, you should check out this 18-rotor monster of a multicopter by E-Volo, as it takes its first manned test flight.
The company’s first certified multicopter, the Volocopter VC200, apparently showcases just what an stable, drone-like vehicle is capable of. It apparently doesn’t need as much skill to fly as a regular chopper and you don’t have to keep eyeballing the controls to keep it stable and airborne.
Granted the manned test flight isn’t incredibly impressive, the semi-affordable-personal transport (or so as it is marketed) is capable of a top speed of 60MPH (about 96 KPH, still pretty fast) and its relatively quiet and fuel free. You probably will be able to fly the Volocopter for personal flights but we doubt you won’t get much attention due to flying a massive drone looking thing.
E-Volo is hoping to put it up for pre-order later this year, with the first few vehicles likely limited to enthusiasts.