Racer

An aerodynamic demonstrator designed to deliver high speed

Racer's first flight in Marignane

Airbus’ high-speed demonstrator

DISRUPTIVE DESIGN

The Racer is a high-speed helicopter demonstrator that aims to leverage increased speed to deliver significant added value for citizens and operators. The simple and proven aerodynamic formula seeks to achieve the best trade-off between speed, cost-efficiency and mission performance.

 

The Racer also targets a fuel consumption reduction of around 20%, compared to current generation helicopters in the same maximum take-off weight category, thanks to aerodynamic optimisation and an innovative eco-mode propulsion system.

First outing of the Racer

A focus on aerodynamic efficiency

The Racer builds upon the success of Airbus Helicopters' X3 demonstrator, which validated an aerodynamic configuration that combines a traditional main rotor and innovative lateral rotors. 

Optimised for a cruise speed of 400 km/h, the Racer features a variety of innovative technologies, including:

  • A characteristic box-wing designed for aerodynamic efficiency
  • A hybrid metallic-composite airframe designed for low weight
  • A new high-voltage, direct-current electric generator
  • A rear fuselage with an asymmetric cross-section profile, designed to optimise hover performances without penalising the forward and cruise flight phases
Racer First Flight

Leveraging high speed for multiple missions

The Racer intends to demonstrate the advantages of high speed for a wide range of missions. These missions include the following:

  • Emergency medical services (where the greatest chance of saving lives depends on help arriving within the first “golden hour”)
  • Search and rescue operations
  • Public service
  • Commercial transportation
  • Flightradar24 view of Racer

    Airbus Racer speeds past 400 km/h

    The Airbus Racer flight campaign has started, with Racer achieiving it's target speed!

Catch a glimpse of Racer's first flight

  • Racer First Flight
    Racer First Flight
  • Racer's first flight

    Racer's first flight

  • Racer's first flight
    Racer's first flight
  • 1st flight Racer
    1st flight Racer

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