Vertical Aerospace Develops Long-Range Hybrid VX4 Air-Taxi

Vertical Aerospace is developing a hybrid-electric variant of its VX4 air-taxi, aiming to significantly expand range and payload capabilities to serve defense, logistics, and commercial markets. The new hybrid VX4 is expected to achieve a range of up to 1,000 miles and carry payloads up to 1,100 kilograms, representing a tenfold range increase over the all-electric model. Flight testing is planned to begin in the second quarter of 2026, with certification targeted for 2028. This hybrid propulsion system, developed over 18 months at Vertical's Energy Centre, allows the aircraft to retain vertical take-off and landing capabilities while enabling longer missions such as military resupply, disaster relief, and remote cargo delivery. Vertical has partnered with Honeywell to certify key systems and integrate advanced controls, enhancing stealth features like low noise and heat signatures for sensitive missions. The development aligns with Vertical Aerospace's Flightpath 2030 strategy and positions the company to capture growing demand for long-range, quiet, and high-payload eVTOL aircraft in the expanding urban air mobility and defense markets.