The DR-7 Aircraft
Innovations in transportation have historically been sporadic, with the most significant breakthroughs occurring in the early part of the 20th century. Since the advent of the automobile and airplane more than one hundred years ago, advancements in personal mobility have essentially been stagnant, yet global need and resource demands have never been higher. At DeLorean Aerospace we believe we are on the brink of the next renaissance in human transportation.
The vehicle of the future
Our highly innovative, patented DR-7 aircraft is poised to significantly impact not only the field of general aviation, but the entire global transportation industry. Designed to be flown with minimal operator training, this VTOL aircraft uses an autonomous, passively navigating flight control system that allows for intuitive manual operation for the performance flying enthusiast. Pairing a zero-emission modern electric power system to a lightweight and highly maneuverable platform, the vehicle that was once only of dreams - fast, efficient, vertical launch capable, simple to operate, is finally becoming a reality.
how does it work?
Compact, lightweight, deceptively simple. The DR-7 is elegantly maneuvered by a pair of 360 degree thrust-vectoring electric ducted fans located along the vehicle's centerline. This architecture provides inherently stability while also providing unique performance and efficiency advantages. The DR-7's carbon composite body is an F1 racer like monocoque structure, and accommodates two passengers in a surprisingly spacious fighter-jet style tandem seating configuration.
safety priority
With its compact fan units, the DR-7 is capable of conventional launches and landings, i.e., using runways, in conditions which preclude VTOL operation. In addition to a number of patented and patent pending active and passive safety features, the DR-7 includes a ballistic parachute, helping to make this among the safest aircraft ever created.
Efficiency benchmark
The DR-7 is designed for excellent cruising efficiency. With an industry first centerline twin vectoring propulsion system (CTV), drag is reduced substantially. In airplane mode the fuselage functions as an airfoil, improving efficiency while increasing low-speed stall resistance. The thrust vectoring fan system also eliminates the need for a rudder, further reducing drag and allowing higher cruising speeds and enhanced directional stability.
what sets us apart
The DR-7 stands alone from the competition not only by its performance capabilities, but also with its relatively low mechanical complexity. Using just two primary propulsion units, versus 4 or more as proposed by most other concepts, reduces potential failure points while integrating more robust power systems. Manufacturing and maintenance costs promise to be very low as well, making this a favorable option for fleet applications such as urban air shuttles.
DR-7 PROTOTYPE