From bikes to cars to planes, countries are trying their best to avert carbon emissions from all modes of transport. Where the automakers have achieved milestones in extending the EVs lineup, the aviation industry has also added its part– manufactured the first ever electric plane.
First Flight
Eviation’s all-new sleek electric aircraft, dubbed “Alice,” made its first flight from Grant County International Airport (MWH), flying at an altitude of 3,500 feet for 8 minutes.
Power & Variants
The Alice is a prototype equipped with over 21,500 Tesla-style batteries driving two magni650 electric propulsion units from magniX. The aircraft may come in three variants, including a six-passenger executive cabin, a nine-passenger commuter, and a cargo version. All the variants support two crew members.
Eviation’s Alice is anticipated to target the cargo market and also be used as a commuter operating flight ranging from 150 miles to 250 miles.
Bookings
Interestingly, US-based regional airlines named Global Crossing airlines and Cape Air have placed orders for 50 and 75 aircraft, respectively. Moreover, concerning the cargo market, DHL Express is the first company who place an order for 12 Alice eCargo crafts.
“The first flight of Alice represents a transformational milestone for the aviation industry,” said Cape Air Founder and Board Chairman Dan Wolf.
Eviation President and CEO Gregory Davis stated, “Today we embark on the next era of aviation – we have successfully electrified the skies with the unforgettable first flight of Alice”.
“People now know what affordable, clean, and sustainable aviation looks and sounds like for the first time in a fixed-wing, all-electric aircraft. This ground-breaking milestone will lead to innovation in sustainable air travel and shape both passenger and cargo travel in the future,” he added.
What do you think about Eviation Alice, the first electric aircraft? Tell us in the comment section.
