Feature
The United Parcel Service (UPS) announced on February 23 the experimental launch and recovery of a parcel-delivery unmanned air vehicle from the roof of an unmanned and electric-powered version of one of its familiar chocolate-brown delivery trucks. The test took place in Tampa, Florida. The Ohio-based Workhorse Group built the HouseFly UAV and the delivery truck as an integrated unit using electric/hybrid power. The HouseFly is an octocopter design, capable of 30 minutes’ endurance and delivering 10lb (4.5kg) packages in an underslung basket. On recovery, the basket extends inside the truck, allowing it to be reloaded for the next delivery. David C Isby
