Israeli aviation startup Eviation is hoping to test fly its Alice electric powered regional commuter aircraft in early 2019. The aircr...
Israeli aviation startup Eviation is hoping to test fly its Alice electric powered regional commuter aircraft in early 2019.
The aircraft is designed to fly up to 650 miles at 240 knots speed, offering a operating cost similar to that of airliner.
With a cruise altitude of 10,000 ft, the unpressurized cabin can seat 9 passengers and two crew members.
Powering the Alice is three electric motors rated at 260 kW each, driving one main pusher propeller at the tail and two pusher propellers at the wingtips. Eviation claims the configuration will reduce drag and improve efficiency.
The 900 kWh Li-ion battery sourced from the South Korean Kokam, is distributed through out the aircraft including the wings, ceilings and floor.
Despite its all composite construction and unpressurized cabin the Maximum Take Off Weight (MTOW) is a staggering 6,350 kg, around 30 percent higher than its pressurized turboprop competitors like a Pilatus PC-12NG.
Of this the Battery accounts for 60 percent of MTOW or 3.8 tonnes.
With an ambitious first flight schedule, Eviation hopes to complete certification and commence commercial flights with Alice in 2021.
