Renders of the UltraVision glider 18m with flaps.

Abstract

Renders of the UltraVision glider 18m with flaps, designed by Gonzalo Garcia-Atance with an estimated glide ratio of 46-50:1. Intended to be developed with an electric sustainer/selflauncher.
The widespread use of electric sustainers has reduced the “performance anxiety” caused by the limited ability to fly in poor weather conditions or the possibility of not being able to return to the airfield. Eliminated the “performance anxiety” with electric sustainers/selflaunchers it makes sense to design gliders to maximize the flying experience, hence the unobstructed cockpit design. All sailplanes till now have been designed to maximize performance given the wingspan and the intended selling price, I believe a change of paradigm will come where the flying experience and not the performance is maximised.