US-based XTI Aircraft Company has signed a deal to jointly develop a hybrid / electric prototype of its TriFan vertical takeoff aeroplane with Bye Aerospace.

XTI’s new TriFan 600 will be a six-seat aircraft and will be able to reach an altitude of 35,000ft in ten minutes, and will be capable of taking off and landing vertically in a helicopter-like manner.

The TriFan 600 aircraft prototype will be equipped with three ducted fans and feature the speed, range and comfort of a business jet, and can carry six passengers.

XTI Aircraft Company CEO Robert LaBelle said: “We're continuing with our plan, but we've made two important changes. 

“First, with the engineering expertise of the team at Bye Aerospace, this first prototype will be powered by a state-of-the-art hybrid-electric propulsion system.

"Second, because we're now able to significantly reduce the weight and cost of producing the TriFan, our first prototype will be a full-size TriFan 600 instead of the 65% subscale version.

“We're replacing the transmission, gears, two large heavier engines and other components with electric motors, batteries, generators, and a single smaller turboshaft engine.”

The company note that the new prototype will be able to travel at a speed of more than 300mph.

"Because we're now able to significantly reduce the weight and cost of producing the TriFan, our first prototype will be a full-size unit instead of the 65% subscale version."

Bye Aerospace founder, chairman and CEO George Bye said: “Advanced electric power for aircraft makes the hybrid-electric configuration compelling for the TriFan.

“We can now bring together into one extraordinary airplane, battery power, electric motors, and a light efficient engine in a vertical takeoff and landing platform. 

“The TriFan will achieve unprecedented performance and operating economy while being safer, lighter, quieter and cleaner.”

The company is currently involved in the development of electric-powered and solar-powered aircraft.

Image: XTI Aircraft Company’s TriFan 600 aircraft. Photo: courtesy of XTI Aircraft Company/ PR Newswire.