German start-up Baaz claims a competitive edge against other eVTOL aircraft on the basis that its wing will deliver greater payload and range, but retain operational flexibility by being able to fold inwards. Initially, the all-electric version of the aircraft would have range of up to 200 km (125 miles), with a possible hydrogen-powered version later extending this to 350 km (219 miles). The design of the five-seat B5 also features five sets of distinctive ducted propellers.
The small, privately funded company says that it aims to achieve type certification for the aircraft before the end of 2025, based on the assumption that it will have a full-scale prototype ready to start flight tests by early 2023. Baaz has filed patent applications for the folding wing and propulsion system and intends to file others covering its battery cooling system.
Baaz says that it intends to out-source most major components and systems to other companies while retaining overall control as technology integrator in charge of the aircraft's design and final assembly. Like other eVTOL aircraft developers, it plans to be involved in initial commercial operations.