Italy’s Manta Aircraft and China’s Shenyang Aviation Industries Group have announced they are establishing a partnership to develop the Manta ANN hybrid electric HeV/STOL for the regional air mobility markets.
“The solution of the hybrid propulsion system, coupled with four optimized ducted fans for hovering and four for cruising, offers the longest range in the eVTOL segment, with high cruising speed,” said a joint company press release.
This follows Manta Aircraft’s programme to develop a scalable technology for a multi-functional long-range HeV/STOL platform, from which several models can be derived, for public utility and service missions, as well as a for fully autonomous high-performance operations.
“The partnership between Manta Aircraft and Shenyang Aviation Industries Group to develop the ANN Plus aircraft will lead to common R&D activity, production technology for two full-scale prototypes, certification with the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and industrialization. It will cover the Chinese and South Asian markets not only for the marketing activity but also for the MRO services. The partners are supported by Baoding Kaiborui Technologies Co ltd.
“This new industrial partnership was presented on October 26, 2024 at a rollout ceremony in Shenyang, which was jointly hosted by the Shenyang Aviation Industry Group and Baoding Kaiborui Technology Co. Ltd.
“A full-scale mock-up of the “ANN Plus” model will be unveiled at this year’s China Airshow in Zhuhai, November 12-17, 2024. Details of the joint programme will be presented during the show.
“The ANN Plus is a multipurpose, six-seater air vehicle offering comfortable space for 1 pilot and 5 passengers – for personal mobility, business travel, special and cargo transport operations. Combining helicopter versatility with airplane efficiency, this aircraft supports both Vertical and Short Takeoff and Landing (VTOL & STOL), enabling operations anywhere – from airports to helipads to unprepared remote areas. With a range of 300 km for VTOL operation and up to 1,000 km using a short airstrip for STOL operation, it offers unmatched mission flexibility, regardless of infrastructure. Its large radius allows extended missions without refueling, while batteries are recharged in flight, making it ideal for scenarios like outback, offshore and inter-regional operations. Perfect for both urban and remote locations, it delivers superior performance with minimal reliance on ground support.”
Graphs for the payload-range capability, with a vertical take-off and with a rolled take off from a 270m semi-prepared strip, estimated at different ambient temperatures, up to ISA+30°:
For more information
https://www.mantaaircraft.com/media?pgid=ky4em56i-135caa36-a35a-4449-966a-e8e371fb49c2