The world’s first all-electric commuter plane completed a series of high-speed taxi tests in Washington yesterday (Sep 19), and is now aiming for its first flight test soon.
The battery-powered plane, nicknamed Alice, is based near Seattle and being developed by Eviation. They’ve secured some big orders too, with companies such as GlobalX, DHL Express and Cape Air all showing interest with their dollars.
Fully-electric Aircraft For Regional Travel
The Tesla-looking aircraft’s 8,000 lb battery makes up most of the plane’s belly. Twin engine props are mounted near the tail. Alice is only designed for shorter routes, but those shorter routes of 500 miles or less make up for nearly half the world’s air travel.
Eviation hopes to capitalize on that. With the taxi tests done, the next major milestone will be the first flight test. Neither the company or FAA, however, have yet announced a first flight test date.
Fast Charging
The plane will only take 30 minutes to charge and will fly 2 hour / 400 mile routes, before needing to charge its battery again.
“Eventually, we believe the electric aircraft is going to achieve dominance in this sector,” says Eviation CEO Gregory Davis. “We’re prepared to support that.”
Goal: Commercial Service By Mid-Decade
Eviation hopes to see their planes enter commercial services as soon as 2024. Three different versions will be available. A commuter version will seat 9 passengers for 400 mile routes. A luxury executive version will also be available, as well as a cargo version.
But Alice isn’t the only player in the game. Wright Electric is developing a 100-passenger electric plane. United and Mesa Air are backing an aircraft by Heart Aerospace. Airbus and Boeing are both working on designs too.
