Watch The UFO-Like, 18 Rotor Volocopter Take its First Manned Flight

Meet Volocopter

Experts have long talked about using multiple rotors on electric helicopters as an alternative method of personal transport. And today, the company responsible for creating an 18-rotor electric helicopter just managed to successfully complete its first manned test flight—which means our dream of using multicopters just moved one step forward.

The Volocopter VC200 is the world’s first certified multicopter, and while may not be the most impressive or ambitious demonstration of the technology, it show remarkable stability and ease of use. The device doesn’t require constant monitoring of controls, which makes it ideal for users new to the technology.

Check out this video of of its maiden flight in the video below.

 

VC200 Goes Airborne

Eventually, the VC200 is expected to go up to 95 km/h (60 mph); however, the team behind the tech has yet to test the copter at its full capacity. But with the recent demonstration, designers are confident that they will be able to accept pre-orders for the final product by the end of the year.

It’s likely that early adopters of the device will be exclusively composed of drone enthusiasts, but they hope that the aircraft will one day be used as a reliable means of transportation.

The VC200 is not only easy to operate, it also doesn’t require fuel—which makes it an ideal alternative for personal flights—maybe even one day replacing our traditional road vehicles with multicopter air taxis.