Wed, Oct 13, 2021
Battery-Powered Trainer Aircraft To Come
Diamond Aircraft’s experimentation with electric aircraft began a decade ago, when they unveiled their hybrid DA36 E-Star, a modified HK36 motor glider. Its sequel arrived two years later, with the E-Star 2, sporting increased payload and performance.
Continued collaboration with corporate partner Siemens brought the HEMEP, their hybrid-electric multi engine. After years of development, Diamond feels confident that technology has matured enough to offer their first fully-electric general aviation trainer: The eDA40.
Partnering with battery technology company Electric Power Systems, Diamond will integrate their EPiC ecosystem into the aircraft. The DC fast charging system promises to turn around a depleted aircraft in less than 20 minutes, after it refills the custom designed belly pod and forward bulkhead. EPiC batteries have been on track for TSO authorization in Q2 2022, with systems already successfully taking flight throughout 20 unique battery systems for electric aircraft. The system is expected to cut operating costs around 40% compared to a traditional priston trainer. In its initial release state, run time is expected up to 90 minutes in flight until further battery system evolution enhances performance further.
“The eDA40 will be the first EASA/FAA Part 23 certified electric airplane with DC fast charging and specifically tailored to the flight training market,” says Liqun Zhang, CEO of Diamond Aircraft. “Making flying as eco-friendly as possible has always been at the core of Diamond Aircraft with our fuel-efficient jet fuel powered aircraft producing less CO2 and noise emissions compared to conventional piston aircraft engines. Therefore, we are more than proud to underline this commitment with the all-electric eDA40, a sustainable solution for the General Aviation of tomorrow.”
EPS is equally excited. “We are thrilled to team with Diamond on this important project for the aviation industry." says Nathan Millecam, Chief Executive Officer of Electric Power Systems. "Training aircraft set the stage for demonstrating that electric aircraft can meet the demands of high-paced, high-volume operations at a reduced cost basis. Combining EPS’ battery and electric propulsion know-how with a globally recognized leader in advanced general aviation design and manufacturing, enables the eDA40 to be one of the most notable Electric Aircraft projects in the world.”
Initial flights of the eDA40 should begin in the second quarter of 2022, with certification expected in 2023.
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