Vertical Aerospace has partnered with Monolith, a London-based artificial intelligence (AI) software provider, to enhance its testing and simulation processes as it develops the VX4 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The collaboration is aimed at improving performance and reducing the time required to bring the aircraft to market.
Vertical Aerospace, headquartered in Bristol, is leveraging Monolith’s AI technology to streamline the complex, time-intensive, and costly testing required for eVTOL systems. The initial focus of the partnership will be on testing and simulating the supporting pylon structures of the VX4. This involves ground testing the propeller and electric motor to ensure structural integrity and performance.
Monolith’s proprietary “Next Test Recommender” (NTR) algorithm is central to the initiative. The tool provides engineers with prioritized recommendations for the most impactful tests, allowing for a more efficient exploration of design parameters. This process not only increases coverage of previously unexplored areas but also reduces the need for extensive physical testing, saving both time and resources.
Monolith CEO and founder, Dr. Richard Ahlfeld, emphasized the potential of the partnership, noting the role of AI in accelerating innovation within the urban air mobility sector. “With Monolith, Vertical will model complex systems faster and accelerate test campaigns, enabling the company to learn more about design performance while reducing development and testing time,” Ahlfeld stated.
David King, Chief Engineer at Vertical Aerospace, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating that Monolith’s tools allow the company to refine its engineering processes and bring the VX4 to market more efficiently. He described the integration of AI as a means to enhance precision and shorten development timelines.
Monolith brings experience from previous aerospace projects with Airbus and BAE Systems, where its AI-driven tools were used to optimize aircraft and drone development. Its no-code, machine-learning platform enables engineers to analyze existing testing datasets, generating reliable predictions to reduce dependency on physical prototypes. The platform includes features such as the “Next Test Recommender” and an AI-powered “Anomaly Detector,” providing intelligent solutions to accelerate engineering innovation.
Vertical Aerospace’s VX4, an eVTOL aircraft designed for zero-emission urban air mobility, represents a critical step in the industry’s efforts to revolutionize transportation. The partnership with Monolith underscores the growing role of AI in addressing the technical challenges associated with advancing this emerging technology.
