Project Heaviside is a high-performance, single-seater aircraft that’s capable of vertical take off and landing (VTOL).
The company Kitty Hawk claims the craft’s electric propulsion system, tiny proportions, and aerodynamic shape make it “roughly 100 times quieter than a regular helicopter.”
This is flying car startup’s third electric aircraft — and it can cover 160 kilometers (100 miles) while making almost no noise at all.
While airborne, the Heaviside emits a mere 38 decibels — making it as loud as a library or babbling brook. For comparison, a helicopter at the same altitude gives out closer to 80 decibels, about as much sound as a passing truck.
According to Kitty Hawk, the VTOL can cover 88 kilometers in just 15 minutes.
The Heaviside is an impressive leap forward for Kitty Hawk, which is backed by Google co-founder Larry Page.
However, the fact that the aircraft can only fit a single pilot is arguably a pretty severe limitation.
Reference- The Verge, Futurism, Kitty Hawk website