Latest news with #Shuttle
Auto Express
a day ago
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Volkswagen Transporter BEV offers up to 8 seats and 196 miles of range
The new Volkswagen Transporter recently went on sale in diesel-powered Shuttle and Kombi form – and now you can add pure-electric power to the mix with the new BEV Transporter. Aimed at taxi companies, tradespeople and families with three or four children, the Transporter in Shuttle TDI diesel form starts at £48,775 for the entry-level Life edition, rising to £55,135 for the Style trim. The all-electric Transporter Life starts at £56,129 while the Style is priced from £62,957. Volkswagen claims a 196-mile range for the new electric Transporter in Kombi van form, or 194 miles in people-carrying Shuttle guise, thanks to a 65kWh battery. That's slightly down on the 209 miles offered by the Ford E-Transit, which is a sister model produced as part of Ford and Volkswagen's partnership. Advertisement - Article continues below That battery sends power to a rear-mounted 136bhp electric motor for a 12.8-second 0-62mph time. What's more important, however, is the charging time, which stands at 39 minutes for a 10 to 80 per cent top-up thanks to a maximum recharge speed of 125kW. The payload for the BEV Transporter Kombi van is 896kg. And like the diesel model, the electric Transporter comes with the option of short or long-wheelbase bodystyles and a choice of eight or nine-seat configurations. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below The TDI versions of the Transporter come with a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine in either 148bhp or 167bhp form, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. There's also a 109bhp diesel available with a six-speed manual transmission, which in the short-wheelbase Transporter Shuttle will return 38.2mpg on the combined cycle, while the more powerful versions both return 34.9mpg. On top of the standard equipment the diesel-powered Transporter Life gets, the BEV adds all-season tyres, a heat pump, a tyre-sealant kit in place of a spare wheel, heated front seats, manually adjustable lumbar support and a Mode 3 charging cable with a storage bag. Style trim adds a leatherette-wrapped multifunction heated steering wheel. The standard equipment you'd find with Life trim on the Transporter Shuttle includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors including a reversing camera, cruise control and keyless start. The tech package features a dual-screen set-up that includes a 12-inch driver's display and a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and no less than nine USB charging points. As for the Transporter Shuttle Style, that adds electric sliding doors, a heated windscreen, larger 17-inch wheels and manual sun shades in the second row. There's also a higher-spec set of LED headlights, and a range of high-end options including a Harmon Kardon sound system and a panoramic glass roof. The Transporter Kombi van starts at £42,220 in Commerce Plus form and also comes with a decent set of equipment, including LED lights, heated front seats and the same infotainment set-up as the Shuttle. The Commerce Pro trim (from £44,860) adds 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, wireless mobile phone charging, air-conditioning, adaptive cruise control and front and rear parking sensors with a rear-view camera. Our dealer network has 1,000s of great value new cars in stock and available now right across the UK. Find your new car… Find a car with the experts Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It's our Deal of the Day for 29 June Electric car appeal is at its lowest since 2019 Electric car appeal is at its lowest since 2019 From poor electric car sales to crashes in F1, Mike Rutherford thinks its been a crazy few weeks in the automotive world New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand's hot-SUV onslaught New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand's hot-SUV onslaught Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
Newsweek
23-06-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
Curated, Affordable Private Flights Appealing to Experience-forward Gen Z
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Flyblack has a very modern tech startup story. Its success today as one of the country's leading private aviation companies can be traced back a decade to when CEO Sami Belbase started the company out of a WeWork with a phone and an idea. "Within a year, we had over 30 brokers working under our roof, many of them twice my age and from Wall Street. From an office in the heart of SoHo to speaking at Forbes Under 30 and hosting charity events on Richard Branson's island, the journey has been anything but typical," Belbase told Newsweek. What also makes Flyblack unique is its approach to private aviation. Belbase saw major inefficiencies in the business model and looked to change that with Flyback. "I saw a huge gap: traditional private aviation was stuck in the past. Manual bookings, inaccessible pricing, and a system that left thousands of jets flying empty every day. Flyblack was built to re-engineer that system - to create a digital-first platform that finally makes flying private more efficient, sustainable, and accessible to a broader market," he said. Typically, when a customer wanted to book a private jet, they would have to call a broker and schedule a trip. Yet, if they wanted to book a yacht, villa or top-tier travel experience, they could use an app that worked like a concierge service. Flyblack App displayed on an iPhone. Flyblack App displayed on an iPhone. Flyblack "That disconnect drove us to build a platform that matched today's digital expectations. Launching our Shuttle by-the-seat flights and One Way Deals was game-changing — finally offering curated, affordable private flight options for high-spending Millennials and Gen Z who value experiences over ownership," Belbase explained. Flyblack has access to 3,000 private aircraft worldwide, with the ability to use technology to fill seats rather than require clients to rent an entire aircraft for use. The company's Shuttle service can cost as little as a first-class ticket would on a commercial flight, but without the hassle of having to experience the surroundings of a commercial airport. Its One Way Deals option helps to sell seats on planes that would otherwise be deadheaded to their next destination. Members can book flights from months in advance to same-day travel. If there's a seat, you can book and fly within 15 minutes, about the same style of operation as a traditional commercial flight. Artificial intelligence (AI) helps the company operate. "We use AI and data modeling to predict demand around events, seasons, and trends. We have compiled years of big data focused around private jet flights and corresponding demand and fulfillment. From Coachella to Aspen ski season, we can pre-position jets and crews ahead of time. Operators also benefit. Our tools help them reduce waste and boost fleet efficiency. It's luxury powered by tech- smarter for flyers, and better for business," the CEO said. Flyblack sells seats on six different types of planes: turboprop, entry-level, light, mid-size, super mid-size and heavy. When browsing flight options, the type of plane you're booking (for example, a Citation X or Learjet 45XR) is shown prior to committing to the booking. The company is the new kid on the block, but Flyblack is seeing quick success. In the first few weeks of 2025, the Flyblack app, "had thousands of downloads and hundreds of applications within weeks, all before our public release. Our sold-out shuttles to events like St. Barths and Coachella validated that we were solving a real problem: people wanted private flight access without the full buy-in," Belbase said. Those users are tech-savvy and after luxe experiences that go beyond traditional travel, a trend that extends to yachts, villas and on-the-ground cultural immersions. "Younger travelers aren't just looking for exclusivity, they want smart luxury, value-driven experiences, and sustainability baked in. Flyblack hits all those notes. They're not booking just for status; they're booking because we offer shared jet seats to Aspen with Erewhon catering and caviar-topped In-N-Out burgers - a vibe they actually relate to," he said. "This is the next evolution of status travel: access without ownership, community without compromise. And with memberships unlocking flights at up to 75 percent off standard pricing, it becomes more about lifestyle alignment than a show of wealth." Flyblack first launched in Los Angeles and has a waitlist that is "already thousands deep." Next, the company plans to expand to New York and South Florida, followed by Europe in 2026. A private plane that is part of the Flyblack fleet. A private plane that is part of the Flyblack fleet. Flyblack "We're demand-driven, if enough members want a new route, we can launch and test new routes. We listen to our audience, and this will always give us insight on growth opportunities. Our vision is clear: give members the ability to fly major routes without ever entering a commercial terminal," the CEO said. What comes after that? "Ultimately, we will launch the world's first full-fledged, private jet airline," he divulged.
Zawya
09-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Pact to advance urban air mobility in Oman
MUSCAT - AeroVecto, an Oman-based startup specialising in sustainable air mobility solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Romanian-based LYNEports, a digital planning platform for advanced air mobility infrastructure, to support the rollout of hybrid electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aviation services in Oman and the wider GCC region. The partnership is set to take advanced air mobility services, currently in its nascency in Oman, to the next level. A number of Omani startups, in partnership with key players in the global international, are gearing up to introduce uncrewed air mobility services for, among other fields, cargo deliveries, passenger transportation, ambulance services, medical deliveries and even disaster relief. AeroVecto is credited with developing Shuttle, a hybrid eVTOL aircraft purposely built for mass public transportation. According to the company, the high-capacity aircraft will enhance current ground-based public transport by enabling convenient point-to-point travel. With a focus on passenger volume and comfort, Shuttle aims to revolutionise urban and intercity mobility, introducing a new era of clean, efficient and scalable air transport. Through the partnership, LYNEports will assist in planning and simulating AeroVecto's Shuttle network, ensuring each site meets aviation-grade safety standards, operational viability and regulatory requirements. Furthermore, by leveraging LYNEports' AI-driven platform, AeroVecto can evaluate ideal locations, model flight routes and visualise integrated transport systems, accelerating the adoption of advanced air mobility across Oman. 'At AeroVecto, our vision is to make high-capacity aerial commuting a practical reality for cities across the region. We are excited to partner with LYNEports to advance vertiport planning and route optimisation of the Shuttle network, enabling efficient urban air transport for the masses,' said Fahad al Riyami, CEO of AeroVecto, in a statement. 'We're excited to support AeroVecto in bringing their innovative vision to life,' said Rasha Alshami, CEO of LYNEports. 'Their commitment to solving real public transport challenges in the region aligns perfectly with our mission to make AAM infrastructure accessible, safe and well-planned from day one.' AeroVecto's vision extends beyond aircraft development; the company is also designing "Shuttle Hubs" — dedicated vertiports strategically located in urban centres, coastal areas and atop buildings to facilitate seamless boarding and integration with existing transport networks. The Shuttle platform includes variants for cargo delivery, emergency response and premium travel, showcasing its versatility across sectors. Oman is making significant strides in developing its Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector, aligning with the Oman Vision 2040 goals for sustainable and smart transportation. The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT) has initiated the formulation of a national AAM strategy. This strategy focuses on integrating drones and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into urban transport systems to alleviate congestion and enhance connectivity. Last July, Oman's national passenger transportation company Mwasalat announced a partnership with US VTOL aircraft manufacturer Odys Aviation to support the development of Aerial Logistics Programmes in the GCC based on the latter's hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft, Laila. Additionally, with the goal of supporting workforce development linked to this emerging sector, a leading college in Muscat has announced a partnership with aircraft maker Boeing to launch the an Air Taxis and Advanced Air Mobility programme designed to provide undergraduate aviation students with opportunities for research, curriculum enrichment and participation in business challenges related to urban air mobility. Together with regulatory support from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and other stakeholder agencies, these developments underscore Oman's ambitions to become a regional leader in advanced air mobility. HIGHLIGHTS Oman is making significant strides in developing its Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector, aligning with the Oman Vision 2040 goals for sustainable and smart transportation 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
06-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Pact to advance urban air mobility in Oman
MUSCAT, JUNE 6 AeroVecto, an Oman-based startup specialising in sustainable air mobility solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Romanian-based LYNEports, a digital planning platform for advanced air mobility infrastructure, to support the rollout of hybrid electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aviation services in Oman and the wider GCC region. The partnership is set to take advanced air mobility services, currently in its nascency in Oman, to the next level. A number of Omani startups, in partnership with key players in the global international, are gearing up to introduce uncrewed air mobility services for, among other fields, cargo deliveries, passenger transportation, ambulance services, medical deliveries and even disaster relief. AeroVecto is credited with developing Shuttle, a hybrid eVTOL aircraft purposely built for mass public transportation. According to the company, the high-capacity aircraft will enhance current ground-based public transport by enabling convenient point-to-point travel. With a focus on passenger volume and comfort, Shuttle aims to revolutionise urban and intercity mobility, introducing a new era of clean, efficient and scalable air transport. Through the partnership, LYNEports will assist in planning and simulating AeroVecto's Shuttle network, ensuring each site meets aviation-grade safety standards, operational viability and regulatory requirements. Furthermore, by leveraging LYNEports' AI-driven platform, AeroVecto can evaluate ideal locations, model flight routes and visualise integrated transport systems, accelerating the adoption of advanced air mobility across Oman. 'At AeroVecto, our vision is to make high-capacity aerial commuting a practical reality for cities across the region. We are excited to partner with LYNEports to advance vertiport planning and route optimisation of the Shuttle network, enabling efficient urban air transport for the masses,' said Fahad al Riyami, CEO of AeroVecto, in a statement. 'We're excited to support AeroVecto in bringing their innovative vision to life,' said Rasha Alshami, CEO of LYNEports. 'Their commitment to solving real public transport challenges in the region aligns perfectly with our mission to make AAM infrastructure accessible, safe and well-planned from day one.' AeroVecto's vision extends beyond aircraft development; the company is also designing "Shuttle Hubs" — dedicated vertiports strategically located in urban centres, coastal areas and atop buildings to facilitate seamless boarding and integration with existing transport networks. The Shuttle platform includes variants for cargo delivery, emergency response and premium travel, showcasing its versatility across sectors. Oman is making significant strides in developing its Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector, aligning with the Oman Vision 2040 goals for sustainable and smart transportation. The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT) has initiated the formulation of a national AAM strategy. This strategy focuses on integrating drones and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into urban transport systems to alleviate congestion and enhance connectivity. Last July, Oman's national passenger transportation company Mwasalat announced a partnership with US VTOL aircraft manufacturer Odys Aviation to support the development of Aerial Logistics Programmes in the GCC based on the latter's hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft, Laila. Additionally, with the goal of supporting workforce development linked to this emerging sector, a leading college in Muscat has announced a partnership with aircraft maker Boeing to launch the an Air Taxis and Advanced Air Mobility programme designed to provide undergraduate aviation students with opportunities for research, curriculum enrichment and participation in business challenges related to urban air mobility. Together with regulatory support from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and other stakeholder agencies, these developments underscore Oman's ambitions to become a regional leader in advanced air mobility. HIGHLIGHTS Oman is making significant strides in developing its Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector, aligning with the Oman Vision 2040 goals for sustainable and smart transportation
Gulf Insider
06-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Flying Taxis in Oman: LYNEports and AeroVecto Team Up
LYNEports and AeroVecto have signed deal to plan hybrid electric VTOL aircraft in Oman. AeroVecto's flagship aircraft, Shuttle, is designed to redefine public transportation in Oman and the wider GCC region. Prioritising passenger capacity and comfort, Shuttle is poised to transform how people move within and between cities, ushering in a new era of clean, efficient, and scalable urban air mobility. Through this partnership, LYNEports will support the planning and simulation of AeroVecto's Shuttle network, ensuring that every site is designed with aviation-grade safety, operational feasibility, and regulatory compliance in mind. Leveraging LYNEports' AI-powered platform, AeroVecto will be able to assess optimal locations, simulate flight paths, and visualise integrated transport networks to accelerate AAM adoption across Oman. Rasha Alshami, CEO of LYNEports, said: 'We're excited to support AeroVecto in bringing their innovative vision to life. Their commitment to solving real public transport challenges in the region aligns perfectly with our mission to make AAM infrastructure accessible, safe, and well-planned from day one.' Fahad Al Riyami, CEO of AeroVecto, said: 'At AeroVecto, our vision is to make high-capacity aerial commuting a practical reality for cities across the region. 'We are excited to partner with LYNEports to advance vertiport planning and route optimisation of the Shuttle network, enabling efficient urban air transport for the masses.' This partnership marks a significant step in bridging technology and real-world mobility, positioning Oman as a regional leader in next-generation public transportation and AAM innovation. Also read: Sharjah Boosts Eid Al Adha Travel Services With 5,600 Bus Trips, New Dubai Boat Route and Oman Link
