As traffic in densely populated urban areas continues to cause problems, including environmental and noise issues, interest and investment in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft grows.
Overair is partnering with Toray to develop the Butterfly eVTOL prototype aircraft, using Toray’s carbon fiber and resin system. The Butterfly will provide a zero-emission, low-noise sustainable ridesharing option and recently completed full-scale testing of the propulsion system.
Toray’s T1100/3960 prepreg system is formulated for high-performance aerospace applications where the optimal ratio of strength to modulus properties is critical and is being used in the Butterfly’s airframe structure and propulsion units. The 3960 cure epoxy resin allow for autoclave and out-of-autoclave curing and the TORAYCA™ T1100 carbon fiber offers exceptional tensile strength.
“We’re excited to be working closely with Toray’s advanced materials as we continue the development of our all-electric Butterfly experimental prototype aircraft,” said Ben Tigner, co-founder and CEO at Overair. “Our unique propulsion system requires materials that provide a unique combination of high stiffness and high strength, while also maintaining the optimal weight targets for the vehicle.”
