The other question, if it is so efficient, is then why isn't it electric?
Brian M
@Spud Murphy Suspect electric propulsion for aviation is whole different ballgame due to the energy density compared to conventional fuel for the typical LA to NY route distances required.
WONKY KLERKY
Mmmmmmm . . . ............ Remember that 'Pfief' heavy fighter offering Dornier produced at the end of WWII? Mmmmmmm . . ........... etc
anthony88
William Otto worked for North American. That manufacturer spawned a lot of greatness.
Tech Fascinated
@Spud - their web site does mention: "TODAY THE 500L, TOMORROW THE 1000L, HYBRID AND DRONE". Stay tuned, I guess...
Bob Stuart
We have seen this shape before. It looks like a NACA 67-series laminar wing profile, similar to shapes used for the "fuselage" of human powered racing vehicles. Laminar shapes require very smooth shapes - you won't be able to feel the edge of the windshield. The P-51 pioneered using bondo over the wing rivets to make a laminar wing possible, giving it the edge in performance.
michael_dowling
Spud,batteries are still not up to the task. What might work,however,is H2 powered fuel cells: https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/hydrogen-engine-future-aviation-2922721/
paul314
This is aimed directly at COVID panic. Imagine the market for well-off people and families being told they don't have to go through teeming commercial airports.
alexD
Spud Murphy, the answer is obvious: electric doesn't mean magic - it either needs batteries and battery technology is not so efficient at our level (human technology) or a very long power cord........
Mike Malsed
Unique - but I don't find it odd. I like it! Reasonable. Completely makes sense.