Have batteries made electric flight real? Can UK's Vertical Aerospace conquer the skies?

About this episode

All aboard for a British success story in the making? Bristol-based Vertical Aerospace is closer and closer to becoming a reality, and Robert Llewellyn discusses its progress with its Chief Engineer, David King, and how better and better battery technology has made it all possible.   Why not come and join us at our next Everything Electric expo: https://everythingelectric.show EE GREATER LONDON (Twickenham) - 11th & 12th Sept 2026 EE SYDNEY - Sydney Olympic Park - 18th - 20th Sept 2026 To partner, exhibit or sponsor at our award-winning expos email: commercial@fullycharged.show   00:00 Why this eVTOL episode matters 04:35 Who are Vertical Aerospace? 06:00 The São Paulo traffic jam idea 08:00 Why batteries finally made electric flight possible 13:30 David's background: V-22 Osprey & tiltrotors 17:30 Helicopters' Achilles' heels! 22:00 Why the Velo will be dramatically quieter 32:30Why electric motors are perfect for VTOL power spikes 44:30 Battery safety: fire testing & crash protection 47:30 Certifying to airliner safety standards   Check out our sister channel Everything Electric CARS: https://www.youtube.com/@fullychargedshow Support our StopBurningStuff campaign