Key Takeaways
1. Benjamin Biggs reclaimed the title of fastest drone in the world with his fourth version of the BlackBird drone, achieving a speed of 690 km/h (428 mph).
2. He unofficially broke the record due to a lack of professional witnesses, surpassing the previous record by 4 km/h.
3. Significant upgrades included using two batteries in series and overcharging them to increase voltage output, resulting in impressive performance.
4. Biggs implemented innovative design changes, such as relocating motors up the wing for better efficiency and using custom AMAX motors.
5. The Bells, previous record holders, acknowledged Biggs’ achievement and plan to compete for the title again, continuing the rivalry.
Barely two weeks after losing the title of the fastest drone in the world to seasoned record setters Luke Maximo Bell and Mike Bell, DIY engineer Benjamin Biggs has managed to take back the title using the fourth version of his BlackBird drone.
Record-Breaking Attempt
Similar to the previous occasion, Benjamin had to unofficially break the record, explaining that he couldn’t find any professionals to witness his attempt. The attempt was successful, as he surpassed the existing record by just 4 km/h, achieving a speed of 690 km/h (428 mph) downwind and an average top speed of 661 km/h (411 mph).
Upgrades and Innovations
To reach this speed, he made several enhancements to his drone, primarily focusing on the power source. For this version, he utilized two batteries linked in series and even overcharged them, leading to an increase in voltage output. This raise in voltage produced impressive results, resulting in lower-than-normal temperatures, prompting Luke to think about using the same method.
Interestingly, he took inspiration from the Bells by incorporating spinners behind each rotor, but he also implemented something they hadn’t — relocating the motors up the wing for better efficiency. He also utilized custom AMAX motors, fitted with long enamelled wires for connections, allowing him to create thinner wings.
Future Competition
The Bells have recognized this achievement, vowing to reclaim the title once again to keep the rivalry ongoing.
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