New Atlas’ Post

Another day, another wild electrified aircraft concept that reimagines the future of air travel in a way that fascinates and enthralls. This time around, it isn't a straight eVTOL serving as protagonist, but a hybrid that tilts its ducted electric fans to offer helicopter versatility with airplane range and efficiency. Technically identified as a hybrid-electric vertical and short takeoff and landing (HeV/STOL) vessel, the newly modeled ANN Plus uses a turbine-electric powertrain to more economically bridge the gap between traditional air and ground transportation options. We've come to expect crazy, new electrified aircrafts to come from China by default, but Manta Aircraft is actually an Italian company, based in the northern region of Lombardy. That doesn't mean it's without connection to China, however, as it recently partnered up with Shenyang Aviation Industries Group with an eye toward accelerating development of its multi-craft ANN platform as a regional air mobility solution for the Chinese and South Asian markets. It's not surprising, then, that Manta debuted the latest member of the ANN series at the 2024 China Airshow last month, following up on the compact ANN1 and ANN2 with a full-scale model of its largest variant yet, the ANN Plus. The new ANN Plus, also called the ANN-6, is a multipurpose six-seat craft aimed at personal mobility, business travel, medical response, and cargo transport. It's designed to accommodate a single pilot and five passengers. Continue reading:

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