Bell Autonomous Pod Transport 70 Wins Popular Science 'Best of What’s New in Aerospace' Award
December 3, 2019 | BellEstimated reading time: 1 minute
Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. company, announces that Popular Science recognized the Bell Autonomous Pod Transport (APT) 70 with a Best of What’s New Award in the Aerospace category for 2019. In 2018, Bell received a Best of What’s New Award in the Aerospace category for its Bell V-280 Valor Joint Multi-Role Technology Demonstrator. This continued recognition validates Bell’s commitment to technology advancement and innovation in the aerospace industry.
"The Best of What's New is our celebration of the most impactful and exciting innovations of the year," says Popular Science Editor-in-Chief Joe Brown. "This expertly vetted collection lays the groundwork for a healthier, safer, and awe-inspiring future—in our homes, cities, outer space, and everywhere in between. We’re proud to bring you the Best of What's New 2019."
APT 70 is part of the eVTOL family of vehicles Bell is developing, capable of rotation and translation in flight to achieve high speeds and long-range flight. APT’s diverse mission capabilities allow it to serve many industries while keeping operations simple, efficient and fast. The vehicle’s true multi-copter payload capability with fixed wing speed and endurance enables the customer to save time, going faster, longer.
“The team continues to develop innovative technology to meet the transportation needs of the future,” said Scott Drennan, vice president, Innovation. “We are honored to be recognized by a leading industry voice like Popular Science, confirming the team’s hard work and dedication to advancing technology and expanding the scope of vertical lift.”
Bell announced the successful first autonomous flight of the APT 70 in August and recently carried 60lb payload with plans to expand to the maximum payload of 70lbs. The Bell team continues to develop technologies and expand the envelope to prepare the vehicle for entry into market.
To learn more, follow our progress on Bell’s social channels or visit us at bell.co/APT.
Subscribe
Stay ahead of the technologies shaping the future of electronics with our latest newsletter, Advanced Electronics Packaging Digest. Get expert insights on advanced packaging, materials, and system-level innovation, delivered straight to your inbox.Subscribe now to stay informed, competitive, and connected.
Suggested Items
JAVAD EMS to Add New ESPEC Temperature Chamber to Support Growing Mil/Aero Work
04/28/2026 | JAVAD EMSJAVAD EMS (JEMS), a leading global EMS company that provides low to medium volume, high-mix applications, has ordered a new ESPEC EGNZ28-15NW temperature cycling chamber to expand its environmental testing capabilities as demand continues to grow in the military and aerospace sectors.
Global Turbine Asia Boosts Aerospace Growth and Talent Through Strategic Partnerships
04/21/2026 | ACN NewswireThe MoUs reflect GTA’s strategic focus on strengthening the aerospace and defence ecosystem through cross-border commercial cooperation, talent development, research partnerships and long-term capability building, aligned with evolving regional industry needs.
Spirit Electronics Named Authorized Distributor for Microchip Technology
04/17/2026 | Globe NewswireSpirit Electronics, a vertically integrated electronics design and manufacturing solutions provider serving the military and aerospace markets, announced that it has been designated as an authorized distributor for the Americas for Microchip Technology, a broadline supplier of semiconductors committed to making innovative design easier through total system solutions.
FTG Reports Strong Q1 2026 Results with Double-Digit Revenue Growth and Rising Backlog
04/09/2026 | Firan Technology Group CorporationIn Q1 2026, the Corporation grew organically. FTG is strategically investing its capital in ways that will drive increased shareholder returns for the future in both the near term and long term. The company's achievements in Q1 2026 demonstrate this commitment, laying a strong foundation for future growth.
EMI Promotes David Vue to Lead Military and Aerospace Division
03/31/2026 | Express Manufacturing Inc.Express Manufacturing, Inc. (EMI), a global electronics manufacturing services (EMS) provider, announced the promotion of David Vue to Military and Aerospace Division Manager.