The Airbus Racer rotorcraft technology demonstrator has easily surpassed its previous speed target, and the company has set a new goal—240 knots, or 444 km/h.
Additionally, it is emphasized that the new aircraft is 30% more fuel-efficient than classic helicopters of a similar size. The achievement of this new target is expected during the second round of tests, preparations for which are currently underway.
To recap, the Racer first took flight in April of this year, and by its sixth flight in June, it reached a cruise speed of 420 km/h, exceeding the initial target by 13 km/h. Originally, the creators expected to meet this target by the end of the year, but the aircraft’s flight performance exceeded their expectations.
The Racer will receive a new aerodynamic engine fairing and landing gear prior to the second phase of testing. These elements were not available during the first tests, and Airbus expects the new engine fairing to improve local aerodynamic properties by 25%.
Overall, the developers claim the aircraft is about twice as aerodynamic as its classic counterparts in this weight category. The 9-ton Racer has the same drag coefficient as the 2-ton H125.
The expected range will exceed 740 kilometers, and in eco-mode (with one engine running during horizontal flight), the range will be even greater.
During the second phase of tests, real-world scenarios for the Racer’s use will also be demonstrated. In addition, the noise level it produces will be evaluated.
