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Formula 1-inspired AirKart eVTOL races through the sky at 65 mph

Formula 1-inspired AirKart eVTOL races through the sky at 65 mph
Source: interestingengineering
Author: Interesting Engineering
Published: 8/12/2025

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The AirKart, developed by UK startup Elevate Racing, is a single-seat electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle inspired by Formula 1 racing. Designed to combine the excitement of race car driving with aerial freedom, the AirKart is intended for short, low-altitude flights and competitive racing on dedicated circuits. It features a compact design positioned between small drones and larger eVTOL aircraft, capable of speeds up to 65 mph (100 km/h) and a maximum altitude of 400 meters (1,300 feet), with a flight time of approximately 15 minutes on a full battery. Equipped with advanced GPS and LiDAR systems, the AirKart offers two flight modes: EasyFly for beginners, which limits controls and includes automatic obstacle avoidance and simple landing, and Sport Mode for experienced pilots, providing full manual control for racing maneuvers. Its propulsion system uses eight electric motors arranged in a double ducted coaxial quadcopter layout, enhancing thrust efficiency,

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eVTOLelectric-vehicledrone-technologyGPS-navigationLiDARcarbon-fiber-materialselectric-propulsion