What is the Voliris NATAC Project?
Voliris is pushing the boundaries of innovation with its NATAC cable car project — an automated air shuttle designed specifically for transporting oversized freight and containers. This isn’t just any transport system; NATAC is crafted to meet very specific needs, especially when it comes to moving heavy loads without putting extra strain on existing infrastructure. Imagine a solution that opens up hard-to-reach geographical areas without the need for solid runways or massive construction. That’s exactly what NATAC offers, helping to limit land artificialization and promote decarbonization in logistics.
The Main Benefit of NATAC
Here’s what makes NATAC stand out:
- Five-lobe envelope: The soft envelope features five lobes and can carry up to 30 tons. Thanks to the proprietary PCS™ mechanized system, it dynamically adjusts its volume to keep an aerodynamic shape at all altitudes. This design reduces the volume of lifting gas by a factor of four compared to traditional airships.
- Hybrid airship technology: NATAC is heavier than air, striking the perfect balance between an airplane and an airship. It doesn’t need ballast when dropping its load and uses four times less power than a cargo plane to transport 30 tons.
- Site assembly system: Delivered in containers, NATAC comes with everything needed to assemble and inflate it right on-site. This modular kit was designed from the ground up to avoid the usual headaches of transporting airships.
- Automated pendulum transport: Operating in a dedicated air corridor, NATAC flies automatically — think of it like a programmed cable car, running a repetitive route safely above light aircraft and below airliners.
- 100% hydrogen compatible: While helium is the initial lifting gas, NATAC is designed to switch to hydrogen, which doubles as fuel, making it a greener option.
How NATAC Revolutionizes Freight Transport
NATAC is not just a new mode of transport; it’s a game-changer for logistics. By avoiding the need for solid runways and heavy infrastructure, it opens the door to transporting heavy loads in places that were previously inaccessible or too costly to reach. Plus, the hybrid airship design means it’s energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. It’s like having the best of both worlds — the flexibility of an airship with the power efficiency of an airplane.
Applications That Matter
The potential uses for NATAC are vast and impactful. For one, it’s a critical tool for accelerating the deployment of renewable energy projects, which often require moving large equipment to remote locations. In emergencies, like natural disasters or infrastructure failures, NATAC can quickly deliver essential supplies where they’re needed most. And for the “last 1000 kilometers” of delivery — those tricky final legs where traditional transport struggles — NATAC fits perfectly, moving heavy loads without the need for new roads or runways.
Innovative Features Driving NATAC Forward
What really sets NATAC apart are its five key innovations. The five-lobe envelope with PCS™ technology is a breakthrough in airship design, drastically reducing the amount of lifting gas needed. The hybrid nature means it’s heavier than air but still incredibly efficient. The modular site assembly system means it can be put together wherever it’s needed, no fuss. The automated pendulum transport system ensures smooth, repetitive, and safe operation. And finally, the hydrogen-compatible design points to a sustainable future, using hydrogen both as a lifting gas and fuel.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy — by supporting renewable energy deployment.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure — through innovative transport solutions.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — by reducing infrastructure strain and land artificialization.
- SDG 13: Climate Action — via decarbonized transport and hydrogen fuel use.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — fostering collaboration in logistics and sustainable tech.
The Future of Airborne Freight Transport
Voliris’ NATAC project is more than just a transport system; it’s a vision for the future. By combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to sustainability, NATAC offers a fresh approach to moving heavy loads — one that’s efficient, automated, and kind to the planet. As Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said, “The airship is the bird of tomorrow, the bird of the times to come… it is the perfect means of transport.” With NATAC, that future is taking flight.
