Sora Aviation is partnering with Sophrodyne Aerospace, a specialist aerodynamics consultancy, to advance the aerodynamic design of its S-1 30-seat eVTOL aircraft.
The collaboration will focus on several key aspects of eVTOL aerodynamics, including modeling the unsteady aerodynamic interactions between the aircraft’s propulsors and airframe. These interactions are a complex feature of eVTOL designs, particularly during transitions between vertical and forward flight.
The goal is to improve the rotorcraft community’s understanding of these interactions and to develop methodologies for predicting and controlling noise, structural flexing, and vibration in tiltrotor eVTOLs like the S-1 earlier in the design process.
A core element of the work will be the integration of AI-based computational tools into the aerodynamic design workflow.
A key enabler of this collaboration is Sophrodyne’s proprietary Vorticity Transport Model (VTM)—a high-resolution computational tool developed specifically for predicting rotorcraft aerodynamics. The VTM excels at accurately capturing the complex physics of rotor-wing aerodynamic interference, making it ideally suited for analyzing the S-1’s unique multi-proprotor configuration.
Led by Dr. Richard Brown, Sophrodyne has a strong track record in advancing the rotorcraft industry’s understanding of complex aerodynamic phenomena. The company’s recent research into downwash, outwash, and the vortex ring state (VRS) has helped focus industry attention on these critical issues in both helicopter and eVTOL development.
Furqan, CEO of Sora Aviation, stated, “Having someone of Dr. Brown’s calibre working with us on these important areas — with his deep expertise in rotorcraft aerodynamics —gives us tremendous confidence in the aerodynamic development of the S-1.”
Dr Richard Brown added, “Sora is tackling some of the most important challenges faced by the industry in bringing AAM into the reach of the travelling public. Sophrodyne is excited to be involved in the aerodynamic development of Sora’s S-1aircraft and will provide cutting-edge support in modelling and simulating their unique configuration. We look forward to advancing the boundaries of current eVTOL design in partnership with the forward-looking team at Sora.”
