Featuring distributed electric propulsion through numerous ducted fans and an emphasis on safety and operational simplicity, the LEO Coupe eVTOL aircraft is being developed as a kit-built platform aimed at both private owners and specialized operators. Certification is targeted for 2027–2028.
LEO Coupe eVTOL Design
The LEO Coupe is engineered around a double box-wing configuration, with one wing providing vertical lift and the other optimized for forward cruise. The aircraft measures 20 feet in length, 10 feet in width, and 4.6 feet in height, compact enough to fit in a standard residential garage or parking space. Its lift system incorporates between 100 and 200 small ducted electric jets distributed across the vehicle, while six larger electric jets at the rear provide forward thrust.
The aircraft’s aerodynamic structure includes a fixed skid undercarriage and uses a unique inflatable “cat paw” wingtip system to cushion landings. This design enables both vertical takeoff and fast cruise flight while offering inherent redundancies through the distributed propulsion system. The LEO Coupe is reported to maintain safe flight with up to one-third of its lift motors offline, thanks to the high number of independently controlled lift jets.
Features of the LEO Coupe eVTOL
One of the LEO Coupe’s defining features is its emphasis on safety and user accessibility. The fully electric aircraft includes a whole-aircraft ballistic parachute, a retro-rocket deceleration system, and onboard flotation features for emergency water landings. Airbags and automatic stabilization systems further support safe operation in a variety of conditions.
The vehicle is controlled via a fly-by-wire system with intuitive joysticks, and includes automated takeoff, landing, and emergency glide functionality. The design supports semi-autonomous flight, reducing pilot workload and lowering the barrier to entry for training. The transparent canopy, which includes downward-facing floor windows, offers extensive visibility for both pilot and passenger.
LEO Coupe eVTOL Performance
The aircraft is powered by a modular, split 66 kWh battery pack designed to enhance redundancy and maintain balance in flight. The LEO Coupe is expected to cruise at speeds between 200 and 250 miles per hour, with a targeted range of 250 to 300 miles on a single charge, including reserve power. Flight endurance is estimated at approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The wing-borne stall speed is around 100 miles per hour, with performance enhancements under development to further reduce minimum forward flight speeds.
The aircraft has a maximum payload capacity of approximately 510 pounds, including passengers and cargo.
Capabilities of LEO Coupe eVTOL
LEO Flight envisions the Coupe as a versatile platform suited to various missions beyond personal air mobility. Its compact size, safety systems, and high-speed capability make it suitable for intercity travel, emergency response, tourism, and exploration applications. The company is also exploring military and civil service roles. The aircraft’s small footprint and ducted fan configuration make it well-suited to urban operations with minimal noise and safety concerns compared to traditional rotorcraft.
LEO Flight is developing compatible infrastructure such as “Vertistop” platforms to support takeoff and landing operations in urban and suburban settings.
