Firm could bring flying taxis one-step closer to a reality

It has been more than six years in the making, but a German startup will finally have the chance to test its 18-rotor commercial drone in public airways. Designed by e-Volo, the Volocopter 2X has received approval as an ultralight aircraft and should receive'multicopter' type certification in 2018 – letting it be used as flying taxis in pilot projects. The 2X is a revamped version of the Volocopter VC200, which now boasts a sportier look, a lithium battery pack and can top speeds of 62 mph – making it more suitable for everyday use. It has been more than six years in the making, but a German startup will finally have the chance to test its 18-rotor commercial drone in commercial airways. Designed by e-Volo, the Volocopter 2X has received approval as an ultralight aircraft and should receive'multicopter' type certification in 2018 – letting it be used as flying taxis in pilot projects Volocopter 2X has a lithium battery pack that lets users easily switch out and charge it - the battery can be charged in 120 minutes using a regular power outlet.