Flying cars are gradually moving from concept to reality, and US-based aviation startup Pivotal is approaching the idea differently. The company has developed a single-seater electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL) designed mainly for recreational use rather than urban transport.
The lightweight aircraft, which weighs about 115 kilograms (254 pounds) without safety gear, qualifies as an ultralight vehicle under the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. This classification allows Pivotal to test and improve its designs more rapidly, as ultralight vehicles are not subject to the same certification standards as commercial aircraft.
Unlike traditional planes that require runways for takeoff, eVTOLs use vertical thrust from multiple rotors to lift straight up. Pivotal’s aircraft uses eight electric propellers for lift and forward motion. Even if one rotor fails, the company claims the aircraft can still continue to fly. Once airborne, the vehicle tilts forward to transition into horizontal flight at speeds of up to 100 kmph (63 mph).
The system is controlled by a single joystick and thumb controller, while onboard software manages takeoff and landing automatically. The aircraft’s sensors constantly track wind speed, air pressure, and positioning to ensure flight stability. Buyers are required to complete a two-week training program, including simulator practice, before piloting the craft.
To maintain its ultralight status, the aircraft sacrifices several features. Its battery capacity and flight range are limited to about 20 minutes or 32 kilometres. It lacks lighting systems, radio communication, and other safety redundancies typically found in certified aircraft. FAA rules also prohibit ultralight aircraft from flying over populated areas, restricting its operation to open spaces.
Pivotal says this model serves as a testing platform for future versions. The company is developing larger, FAA-certified eVTOLs with extended range, hybrid propulsion, and higher payloads for defence and logistics applications.
Priced at around Rs 1.6 crore ($190,000), Pivotal’s one-seater marks a step toward accessible personal flight, even if it’s currently meant for recreation rather than transportation.