Research and Development

AM-20 eVTOL

AeroMech’s Role in eVTOL and Hybrid-Electric Aviation Innovation

AeroMech is actively engaged in the research and development of next-generation electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, hybrid-electric VTOL systems, and fixed-wing aviation solutions. As the industry shifts toward electrified propulsion, AeroMech remains at the forefront, supporting cutting-edge eVTOL initiatives through advanced engineering and virtual prototyping.

AM-20 eVTOL Aircraft

The AM-20 is a two-seat aircraft designed by AeroMech’s Nirmal Umapathy to explore the complexities of certifying and flight-testing novel eVTOL configurations. This digital testbed accommodates a pilot, a passenger, and limited cargo, serving as a tool for aerodynamic and control system analysis. Development began in October 2019, with the designation AM-20 (or AM20) reflecting AeroMech’s involvement and the project’s inception around 2020. Currently, the aircraft exists as a computational model, leveraging computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate flight behavior.

Originally conceived to study the aerodynamic and control challenges of transitioning between vertical lift and forward flight, the AM-20 has evolved into a potential personal air vehicle (PAV). Its adaptable, modular design now serves as a test platform for evaluating flight dynamics, system integration, and certification hurdles.

Performance & Design Overview

  • Estimated Cruise Speed: 185 km/h (115 mph)

  • Projected Range: 100 km (62 mi)

  • Flight Time: 30 minutes (plus 30-minute reserve in conventional takeoff/landing mode)

  • Max Altitude: 3,048 m (~10,000 ft)

  • Propulsion System:

    • 6 electric motors powering 4 ducted VTOL propellers (mounted on the high main wing) and 2 tilt-propellers for both VTOL and forward thrust.

    • Battery-powered, with performance modeling based on an assumed energy density of 250 Wh/kg.

Structural Features

  • Lightweight Construction: Carbon fiber composite fuselage for optimal strength-to-weight ratio.

  • Aerodynamic Design:

    • Canopy-enclosed cockpit

    • High-mounted main wing with dual support struts

    • Combination V-tail with horizontal stabilizer

    • Fixed tricycle landing gear

Development & Future Steps

The AM-20 was initially designed using CFD simulations, enabling engineers to analyze airflow, stability, and multi-rotor configurations. Moving forward, AeroMech plans to build progressively larger prototypes:

  1. 1/5-scale prototype (initial testing)

  2. 1/3-scale prototype (advanced validation)

  3. Full-scale piloted prototype, capable of remote, manual, or autonomous operation while staying true to the original two-seat design.

Key Specifications

  • Aircraft Type: Virtual research eVTOL (future: piloted prototype)

  • Capacity: 1 pilot + 1 passenger + cargo (full-scale version)

  • Max Payload: 200 kg (441 lb)

  • Empty Weight: 680 kg (1,499 lb)

  • Max Takeoff Weight: 880 kg (1,940 lb)

  • Safety Systems: Distributed Electric Propulsion (DEP) ensures redundancy—multiple motors and propellers allow safe landing even in case of partial system failure.

Please contact us to request more information, and check back in the future in both our News and Research and Development sections for updates on the AM-20 eVTOL project.