Jetson’s founder and CTO, Tomasz Patan, recently demonstrated the racing potential of the Jetson One eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-off and Landing) flyer in what is being called the world’s first step toward eVTOL air racing. This test involved navigating the compact aircraft around a single 26-ft-tall pylon, showcasing its agility and precision. While not a race in the conventional sense, the demonstration is a step forward in the emerging field of crewed eVTOL competitions.
Australia’s Airspeeder, a prominent name in eVTOL racing, has been developing its own crewed aircraft since 2017. Despite successful prototype flights and remote-controlled championships, the company has yet to feature pilots in the cockpit during races. Jetson’s latest demonstration positions it ahead in this niche but rapidly evolving competition.
“This is exactly what the Jetson One was built for – delivering unmatched performance, agility, and adrenaline,” the company noted in its video description, emphasizing the flyer’s potential in air racing.
The Jetson One, branded as the first affordable eVTOL on the market, measures 8.86 x 5.25 x 3.67 ft (2,700 x 1,600 x 1,120 mm). It is powered by high-discharge lithium-ion batteries that allow for a flight time of 20 minutes per charge. The aircraft has a software-limited top speed of 63 mph (102 km/h) and can ascend to an altitude of over 1,500 ft (~460 m). Its control system, a simple joystick interface, is designed for ease of use. Importantly, a pilot’s license is not required to operate the Jetson One in the United States.
Sales for the Jetson One have already surpassed 470 units, with orders now open for the 2026 production batch. Prospective buyers need to pay a non-refundable deposit of $8,000 to reserve their spot and an additional $120,000 upon delivery.
“We believe Jetson ONE plays a role in changing public opinion on eVTOL,” said Patan. “We bridge the gap between sci-fi and reality, and most importantly, we do not show renderings; we have a working product.”
The demonstration highlights the growing interest in personal eVTOLs and their applications beyond transportation. As the technology develops, racing events featuring these agile flyers could redefine competitive motorsport, blending aviation with speed and innovation.
Source: Jetson
