Electra has finished a fully integrated test of the proprietary hybrid-electric propulsion system for its electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft, the Virginia-based company reported Wednesday. Electra continues to work on integrating the hybrid system into its piloted technology demonstrator, which is expected to test Electra’s eSTOL short takeoff and landing performance and fuel burn savings. The company first developed the technology for its nine-passenger eSTOL aircraft and plans to scale it for use in larger aircraft.
Backed by a significant undisclosed investment from Lockheed Martin Ventures that was announced in January, Electra subsequently accelerated ground testing of the 150-kW hybrid-electric propulsion system for a subscale, two-seat eSTOL technology demonstrator that it plans to start flight testing before the end of the year. Designed to carry nine passengers or 1,800 pounds (820 kg) of freight on flights ranging up to 500 miles (800 km), the blown-lift eSTOL aircraft has drawn sales commitments from helicopter operations group Bristow and charter flight booking platforms Yugo, Flapper, and Flyv.
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