As electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent, the technology is also being applied to another popular form of transportation: aircraft. Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft are those that can take off and land vertically, without a runway. Not only do they provide a more efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation, but they could also revolutionize urban planning. Here are seven ways eVTOL could redefine city living:
Reduced Traffic Jams
With the rise of the population in urban areas, there is a greater need for efficient and affordable modes of transportation. eVTOL could help to reduce congestion on roads by providing a more efficient way to move people around cities. By using electrical aircraft for smaller distances, we will be able to take the load off of our roads and reduce traffic jams.
Many Urban Air Mobility companies such as Blade, founded by Rob Wiesenthal, are already offering flight services using chartered planes or helicopters. With these air vehicles, people can fly in and out of the city in a matter of minutes.
Less Pollution
As mentioned earlier, eVTOLs are powered by electricity, which means they produce zero emissions. This is a huge benefit for cities that are struggling to meet air quality standards. With more people using eVTOLs to get around town, we will see a decrease in the amount of pollution caused by transportation.
Moreover, a relatively less number of population will be commuting around cities on cars or ground transportation. eVTOLs are much quieter than helicopters or airplanes. In fact, they are so quiet that many people in densely populated areas may not even realize they’re flying overhead. This is another major benefit for cities, as it will help to reduce noise pollution levels.
Efficient Use Of Space
One of the biggest benefits of eVTOLs is that they can take off and land vertically, which means they don’t need a lot of space to operate. This is a huge advantage in cities where space is limited. With eVTOLs, we can make better use of our urban infrastructure and create more efficient transportation systems.
Due to their ability to take-off or land vertically, eVTOLs are way more suitable and efficient for use in cities with tall and congested buildings. Due to this, we can utilize the existing infrastructure and will not have to completely rebuild our cities to accommodate their usage.
Air Ambulances
Additionally, eVTOLs can be used for medical emergencies. Patients can be flown to the nearest hospital quickly and efficiently. This will help to decrease the number of people who die from heart attacks and other medical emergencies.
In addition to this, the paramedics or firefighters will be able to get to the accident site in much less time. This will help them to provide first-aid to the victims immediately without any delay caused by traffic jams.
Increased Demand Of Property In Suburbs
The introduction of eVTOLs will inevitably have a significant impact on property values. By having autonomous air vehicles that might allow us to travel to offices located in city centers, we will be able to live in the suburbs or the countryside. This will cause an increase in the demand for real estate within those areas, thus causing their prices to soar.
Moreover, the population in suburbs will likely increase. This is because, with the reduction in traveling time, people will be more inclined to move away from the city center.
Construction Of New Infrastructure
Since eVTOLS will require vertiports for charging, air-clearance, landing, and take-off, cities will have to invest in new technologies and construction projects. We will witness new a huge impact on urban planning the development of vertiports for eVTOLs
Initially, it is expected that these stations will be constructed on the outskirts of cities thus allowing city-to-city travel. However, it is also possible that they could be built in the city center, close to major transportation hubs.
Singapore is one of the best examples of a city that is preparing for the introduction of eVTOLs. The country has already set aside land for the construction of vertiports and is working on regulations for their use.
eVTOL technology has the potential to completely redefine urban planning. It could help reduce traffic congestion, but it could also help to speed up the delivery of goods within cities. By bypassing traffic congestion, eVTOLs could make it easier and faster for businesses to get their products to consumers. This will help to improve the quality of life for people living in cities.
