Elevate Racing Shares Final Design of AirKart P1, as It Starts Building 50 Per Cent Scale Prototype
Elevate Racing has confirmed it has started building the 50 per cent scale prototype of AirKart, which is a single-seat eVTOL vehicle designed for both flying and racing.
The company was launched by former Lilium employee Marcin Michalczyk and emerged from stealth mode in July 2025.
AirKart is designed primarily for low-altitude, high-speed competitive flight, yet it’s engineered to be accessible, even for beginners. While it includes comprehensive safety features, it’s not intended for commuting or errands.
Fully compliant with FAA Part 103 regulations, AirKart can be flown without a pilot’s license in the U.S. and select countries. It’s electronically limited to a top speed of 100 km/h and altitude of 400 meters.
Propelled by eight electric motors —with only four needed for a safe landing—it delivers both safety and sport-grade performance. The in-house battery system provides a 15-minute flight time and is easily swappable for quick turnarounds between flights.
Providing eVTOL Insights with an update, Michalczyk said: “We just started building 50 per cent scale prototype, where we plan to test electronic control logic, especially low-level flight anti-collision systems, that are crucial for our product. Planned flight is early Q3 later this year.”
“We also plan to gather initial aerodynamics data regarding our DDCP (Double Ducted Coaxial Propulsion) System and test battery pack we are building in house. We have fully redesigned power arms, from beam to wishbone, making the design stiffer keeping the same challenging weight target.”
He added: “We believe current design will significantly increase the ‘sporty’ feel of flying. And what is not less important for flying super car, it just looks way better.”
AirKart is the culmination of a lifelong dream. Michalczyk’s background includes deep expertise in aircraft structures, engine design and a recently completed PhD in electric ducted fan propulsion. His résumé features stints at aerospace giants such as Rolls-Royce and GE, as well as experience more recently at Lilium.
Speaking exclusively to eVTOL Insights back in July 2025, Michalczyk said: “We hear about flying cars from time to time, and we’ve seen a few prototypes fly. But no one has ever seriously tried to build a flying sports car — and that’s exactly what we’re doing at Elevate Racing.
“I’ve wanted to build AirKart since I was a teenager. My entire career has led to this point. With today’s technology, the right team, and the right mindset—I’m finally ready.”
For more information or to follow Elevate Racing’s journey, please visit www.elevate-racing.com. You can also read our initial story by clicking here.
