Vertical Aerospace and Babcock International have announced a new partnership to expand the operational possibilities of the VX4 eVTOL vehicle. The companies will form a joint working group to explore variants for EMS and cargo transportation applications.
A 35-year veteran of the EMS industry, Babcock will offer its expertise in medical response and operations. Among other services, the working group will examine how the VX4 can be used to attend to accidents and provide emergency transport between hospitals.
Both companies will develop MRO capabilities in remote and challenging environments that will allow for cost-effective maintenance. As another possibility, the eVTOL could be used to deliver medium-range logistics and evacuate casualties.
According to the companies, the working group will examine how operators can reduce emissions and costs with V4X.
Babcock’s managing director of UK aviation, Phil Craig, expressed excitement about the partnership. “As a business, we’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint,” he noted. Using V4X’s technological capabilities to deliver critical care and logistical support in challenging environments with zero emissions gives us an understanding of how it can be used in challenging environments.”
Airlines including Virgin Atlantic, lessors including Avolon, and helicopter and tour operators including Bristow and Iberjet have committed to the VX4 during Farnborough International Airshow.
VX4 is expected to fly next month, with entry into service planned for 2025. It was on display at Farnborough in the upcoming months. With a range of more than 100 miles and a speed of more than 200 mph, the VX4 is designed for four passengers.
