About the VELOCITY INC VELOCITY
The Velocity Aircraft, specifically the Velocity SE, XL, and V-Twin models, are a series of high-performance, homebuilt aircraft kits produced by Velocity, Inc. Established in the early 1980s by Dan and Christine Maher in Sebastian, Florida, the company aimed to introduce an aircraft combining speed, efficiency, and advanced aerodynamics tailored for private pilots and aviation enthusiasts.
The motivation behind the Velocity series was to create a modern kit aircraft that offered impressive performance, versatility, and safety. The aircraft are characterized by a canard design, which places a smaller wing at the aircraft's nose, improving aerodynamic efficiency and reducing the risk of stall. This configuration also contributes to a distinctive appearance and offers advantages in stability and control, particularly at lower speeds.
Key Features and Capabilities
Production of the Velocity series began in earnest in the early 1990s. The Velocity SE was one of the first models, designed as a four-seat aircraft with a range of approximately 1,000 miles and a cruising speed around 200 mph. It quickly gained popularity among homebuilders for its relatively straightforward construction process and the robust community support.
In the late 1990s, Velocity, Inc. introduced the XL model, which featured an extended fuselage for additional passenger comfort and increased load capacity. This model continued to build on the SE's success, offering improved performance and longer range, making it an attractive option for cross-country travel.
Market Position and Use Cases
The most recent innovation from Velocity, Inc. is the V-Twin, a twin-engine variant introduced in the 2010s. The V-Twin provides enhanced safety through engine redundancy and offers a unique blend of performance, efficiency, and the reliability twin engines bring.
The Velocity series fills a niche in the general aviation market by offering pilots a homebuilt aircraft that does not compromise on performance, safety, or versatility. These aircraft are particularly popular among experienced builders looking for a high-speed, long-range cruiser with the added stability and control benefits of the canard design.