Electric flight and the distributed-propulsion wing
 

Electrically-powered aircraft and somewhat contradictory, multi-prop wing design: an unconventional concept NASA has certainly taken a closer look. The multiple independent power/prop will shutdown and fold away at certain efficient flight conditions and restart whenever required. The evenly distributed accelerated air (Coanda effect) over a smaller wing area (less wing drag) can maintain slow & safe stall/landing characteristics and lower-energy consumption.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhL2-Lykl9s

Loved his use of the word "propuslers" for power-plants/motors.