The new prototype has a name now and is more than just a lighter version of the TORRE.
Our R&D team, consisting of Frantisek “Franta” Pavlousek and Jaromir “Jarda” Masek (pictured above), is just putting the finishing touches on the 2-liner planned for 2027, which we hereby announce with its name in time for Coupe Icare 2026. The new CERRO is intended to be slightly below the current top model TORRE in terms on piloting demand - while offering the advantage of being lightweight. Size S, for example, weighs only 3.5 kg. Of course it will have the typical UP-handling, which is easier to experience during a test flight than to describe.
At the moment, one of the remaining key decisions in development is whether the built-in rods should be made of polyamide or nitinol for serial production. Both materials have advantages: Polyamide is durable and has proven itself. Nitinol, as a shape-memory material, is known to retain its form precisely. Jarda also reports that this small change is already having an impact on flight behavior - for example, on how quickly the glider recovers after a collapse. The exciting phase of development is therefore not yet complete, but we are very confident that the CERRO will be successfull in certification and available as scheduled in spring 2027.
If you’d like to learn more about the glider, it's signature features and the differences to TORRE, visit the product page and meet the UP Team - including Co-Designer Jarda in person - at the UP stand at Coupe Icare from September 17–20 in France. We will keep you updated about CERRO! If you haven't subscribed to our newsletter yet, this is a good opportunity to do so.
*Certification pending