Daimler-Backed Volocopter Surprises At Frankfurt

Shortly after Daimler announced it had invested in aviation startup Volocopter, the intriguing 18-rotor multicopter has been put on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Dubbed the 2X in production guise, the multicopter made its maiden crewed flight in April 2016 as a prototype. Thanks to the 18-rotor design, it looks unlike any other flying vehicle out there.

In June, Volocopter announced that it will begin testing the 2X as part of a flying taxi service later this year following a deal with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority. The testing regime will last for five years and serve as a crucial tool to show the world the versatility of flying taxis.

Daimler has only been involved in the project for a brief time but it’s influence is already visible on the 2X with a sticker that reads ‘Inspired by EQ’, the name used for the upcoming EV family of Mercedes-Benz.