Development, Testing and Certification of eVTOL Aircraft

The UAM movement is quickly gaining momentum, with eVTOL the focal point. Advanced electronics, materials and electric propulsion forces highlight stark differences from current VTOL systems, but while eVTOL is promising to be more effective and efficient than any traditional form of inter- or intra-city transportation, rigorous, completely new testing campaigns are required to ensure this.

Each eVTOL OEM must reach an agreement with the regulating body (whether EASA for Europe, the American FAA, the Chinese CAAC, or other) regarding the requirements for their specific product, based on its characteristics and functionalities. After that, they must define and perform tests to prove compliance.

A FIRST-CLASS PARTNER FOR eVTOL OEMs

Applus+ Laboratories is a strategic and fully accredited supplier for the aerospace sector, having been involved in the main testing campaigns over the last 15 years. Our multi-disciplinary expertise and experience in challenging (and novel) programs allow us to offer unparalleled support for eVTOL OEMs.

From our unique, full-scale facilities, we handle every test required in your test pyramid, from in-flight testing in the open field to laboratory-based testing of materials, structures, systems, and high voltage components. As well as this, we offer innovative, bespoke equipment for product development, and act as your interface with the aviation authority, if required.

A UNIQUE, END-TO-END SERVICE OFFERING
 

1. TEST PROGRAM DEFINITION

We help you to define the requirements for your product and then design the overall test pyramid. We then develop a strategy for mapping the optimal route to certification, including simulation and analysis plans, deliverables tracking, and arranging all of the logistics.
 

2. VALIDATION TESTING (INDOOR)

Our experts conduct all the required tests from our state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Structural testing: from component to full-scale
• Material characterization and quality assurance
• EMC and electrical testing
• High Voltage component testing
• Electric propulsion testing
• Battery testing
• Fire testing
• Environmental and comfort testing
• Cybersecurity evaluations

3. VALIDATION TESTING – IN-FLIGHT (OUTDOOR)

We have a partnership in place which allows us complete access to full-scale outdoor testing facilities, ideal for your product’s in-flight testing.  
 

4. CERTIFICATION PROCESS SUPPORT

We deliver certification-ready performance reports and will continue to act as your interface until the very end of the process.

TURNKEY ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS FOR PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Our engineers develop next generation, bespoke test equipment for eVTOL OEMs to use in-house:

• Test benches for impact testing
• Test benches for rotary applications/propeller systems
• Test systems for Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulation
• Equipment to test the functional performance of flight controls and actuators

We also produce innovative manufacturing equipment for composite materials: A+ Glide Forming.

REMOTE TESTING SOLUTIONS TO KEEP YOU IN THE LOOP

Choose Applus+ Laboratories and you will benefit from our e-Testing platform, designed to keep everyone up to speed, in real-time. Any relevant collaborator in the project can monitor and even participate in the testing and gathering of results, depending on their assigned role.