The science fiction of the 1950s imagined that by now middle-class families would be commuting to work in flying cars. That hasn’t happened, but within five years consumers may find themselves making journeys in something close: the flying taxi. Such “electric vertical take-off and landing” (eVTOL) systems will fly a small number of passengers up to 20 miles quickly, cheaply and without burning carbon. Dr Steve Wright will discuss the engineering and regulatory challenges for these vehicles and how soon we might see them in Bristol.

Dr Wright will also look further ahead to 2040 and 2050, when the aviation industry might finally crack the carbon challenge and produce electric planes. Greta Thunburg may yet fly again! But will batteries become light and powerful enough to make such dreams realistic? And will electric planes be safe?

DOORS: 19:00

START: 19:30

Venue: Smoke & Mirrors, 8 Denmark Street

Admission is FREE but during the interval we asks for donations. This is to cover speaker expenses and marketing costs such as social media fees and flyers. If you cannot afford to make a donation please do not. If you can, £3-£5 would be greatly appreciated.

Venue: Smoke and Mirrors, 8 Denmark Street

Two for one pizzas available from the bar! 10% off all drinks!

Dr Steve Wright is a Senior Research Fellow and lecturer in Aerospace Engineering at the University of the West of England. He has spent 25 years as a software, electronics and systems engineer at Rolls-Royce, ST Microelectronics, and Airbus. He has contributed to the development of the Airbus A320, A330, A340, A380, A400M, A350, and Boeing 747, 757, 767, and 777. 

Dr Wright’s research is focused on Avionics and Aircraft Systems, particularly in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). He founded the Unmanned Flight Laboratory (UFL) at the UWE, developing UAV technologies for a variety of industrial customers.