At Oshkosh 2023, the air buzzed with excitement as Sam Bfield, CEO of Sams Sun Sky, showcased the revolutionary Switchblade. Combining the freedom of flying and driving seamlessly, the Switchblade embodies the ultimate fusion of innovation and convenience.
Bfield, brimming with enthusiasm, shared the remarkable journey of his company over the past 14 years. He emphasized the Switchblade’s ability to transition effortlessly from road to sky, eliminating the confines of weather limitations. “You’re never stopped; you just continue on. It stores in your garage, always available whenever you want to go,” he expressed with pride.
The evolution of the Switchblade from a humble paper napkin sketch to a fully realized prototype involved meticulous steps. It underwent rigorous assessments, starting with arrow reviews to ascertain feasibility, then progressing through ground prototypes, radio control models, wind tunnel tests, and finally reaching the pinnacle of a full production prototype.
The classification of the Switchblade by the Department of Transportation was a pivotal consideration. Bfield explained that opting for a three-wheel configuration categorized it as a motorcycle, offering a regulatory advantage due to the flexibility and leniency in motorcycle regulations. This classification provided a broader scope for innovation and development.
From an aviation perspective, the Switchblade commenced as an experimental amateur-built aircraft, allowing flexibility in design and fuel options. Bfield highlighted the significance of an engine capable of burning unleaded auto gas, essential to comply with EPA regulations and ensure operability both on the ground and in the air.
Performance statistics of the Switchblade painted a picture of versatility and efficiency. With a seating capacity for two and space for cargo, it cruises at a comfortable 160 miles per hour in the air, with a projected top speed of 190 mph. Impressively, it can reach speeds exceeding 125 mph on the ground. The range is equally impressive, with an estimated 500 miles in the air and approximately 750 miles on the ground.
The discussion pivoted to the future of the company. Bfield acknowledged the need to expand the team as they gear up for the final stages of production engineering and eventual mass production. “We’ll be definitely looking for more talented people,” he affirmed.
For those eager to join the innovative journey of Sams Sun Sky, the company’s website, serves as the gateway to potential opportunities.
The Switchblade stands as a testament to human ingenuity and technological advancement. Its transformative potential in the realm of transportation is poised to redefine travel, offering a seamless and exhilarating experience that blurs the lines between land and sky.
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