5‑hour autonomy, capable of carrying up to 1,000 kg. The aircraft features an 8‑tilting propulsion system, box‑wing aerodynamics, and a fly‑by‑wire flight computer that enables autonomous flight and envelope protection.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Current air transport for short to medium distances relies on either slow ground vehicles or conventional aircraft that are costly, inflexible, and limited in payload capacity, restricting rapid response and efficient connectivity for cargo, medical, commuter, and VIP services.
Solution
Nalwa Aero offers the Nalwa Aphulas, an electric vertical take‑off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed to provide fast, safe, and versatile aerial transportation. The aircraft achieves a cruise speed of 350 km/h and a range of up to 450 km on electric power, with an optional hybrid hydrogen system extending range beyond 1500 km. Its eight tilting propulsion units and box‑wing aerodynamics deliver high efficiency and structural strength, while a fly‑by‑wire flight computer enables autonomous flight and envelope protection. The modular airframe supports rapid reconfiguration for roles such as air ambulance, cargo haulage, commuter service, or VIP transport, delivering up to 1,000 kg payload and 1.5 hours of autonomy.
Target Audience
Primary customers are operators of regional air mobility services, including medical evacuation providers, logistics companies, commuter airlines, and premium charter services seeking high‑speed, flexible eVTOL solutions.
Features
- Eight tilting propulsion units with four rotors on each wing for vertical lift and efficient forward thrust
- Box‑wing design that maximizes aerodynamic efficiency and structural rigidity
- Fly‑by‑wire flight control system with autonomous capabilities and envelope protection
- Modular interior allowing quick conversion between air‑ambulance, cargo, commuter, and VIP configurations
- 1,000 kg maximum payload capacity and 1.5 hour flight endurance on electric power
- Dual power options: full electric battery system for 450 km range or hybrid hydrogen propulsion for over 1500 km
- Service ceiling above 2,000 meters, supporting operations in varied terrain and weather conditions