Successful first flight for the electric aircraft Eviation
This page is translated from the original post "Baptême de l’air réussi pour l’avion électrique Eviation" in French.
- 03/10/2022 7:00
The experimental flight didn’t last long, but it proves that the Eviation project is progressing.
Eviation Aircraft successfully tested a prototype of its small electric plane. The flight, however, lasted only 8 minutes, indicating there is still work to be done before commercial deployment.
The test was conducted in the United States, at Grant County International Airport. The electric plane took off on Tuesday, September 27, at precisely 7:10 a.m. local time. It then reached an altitude of 3,500 feet.
Gregory Davis, the head of the American company, did not hide his satisfaction. For him, the success of this experimental flight represents “a decisive step for the aviation industry”.
The electric plane from Eviation Aircraft, officially named Alice, can carry 9 passengers and their luggage. It is also available in “Business” and “Cargo” configurations for freight transport.
Eviation Aircraft initially expected its electric aircraft to be ready by 2024, but the company was perhaps a little optimistic. It now aims for a service entry in 2027. The unit price of Alice has not been disclosed. A few years ago, a figure of 4 million dollars was mentioned, but it is less relevant today.
DHL Among the First Customers
The aircraft was designed for regional routes, covering distances between 150 and 250 miles (approximately 240 to 400 km). Powered by two 700 kW electric motors (about 950 horsepower), it can reach a speed of 260 knots, roughly 480 km/h.
In the United States, airlines Cape Air and Global Crossing Airlines have ordered 75 and 50 units of this electric aircraft, respectively. Eviation also counts DHL among its first clients, having ordered 12 Alice aircraft in cargo configuration.
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