Workhorse Gets FAA OK to Test-Fly Electric Hybrid Helicopter

Workhorse Group has received an Experimental Airworthiness Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct test flights of an electric hybrid helicopter platform.

Workhorse said Wednesday it aims to commence the first test for the company’s SureFly helicopter in Las Vegas before the 2018 Consumer Electronic Show kicks off on Jan. 8.

Additionally, the company also announced plans to establish a new independent company that will focus on marketing and selling SureFly.

SureFly is designed to carry a maximum payload of 400 pounds and fly at a range of up to 70 miles.

Workhorse built the helicopter with four propeller arms, a hybrid propulsion system that combines gasoline and electric power and a backup lithium battery pack.

The company will showcase the helicopter at the company’s booth 31 during the CES event.

Interested buyers may pre-order the helicopter through the company’s website.