The Electric EEL aircraft traveled over 2,200 km above the skies of California and landed with more than 2 hours of fuel and battery reserve.
American startup Ampaire achieved an impressive milestone when the Electric EEL demonstration aircraft completed a sustained 12-hour flight in Camarillo, California, on December 10. Ampaire stated that the flight surpassed previous records for flight duration of hybrid electric aircraft – aircraft that use a combination of electric power and fuel. Additionally, the Electric EEL astonished observers by landing with more than 2 hours of fuel and battery reserves. The aircraft flew approximately 2,213 km during the journey, which included simple round trips above Camarillo Airport.
The Electric EEL hybrid aircraft sets a 12-hour flight record. (Photo: Ampaire).
The potential of hybrid aerial vehicles may be as significant as that of hybrid vehicles on the ground. Ampaire mentioned that the first-generation smart hybrid propulsion system in the Electric EEL demonstration aircraft reduces fuel consumption by 50% to 70%.
Unlike ground vehicles, where the benefits of regenerative braking are more apparent, Ampaire’s aircraft utilizes a smaller, more efficient internal combustion engine augmented by electric power for takeoff, landing, or rapid acceleration. The unique design of the Electric EEL’s propulsion system, featuring separate propellers for the electric and internal combustion engine systems, enables the feasibility of regenerative braking. This not only enhances efficiency but also aids in energy recovery during deceleration.
Ampaire anticipates that the next generation of the Electric EEL will allow the hybrid engine system to power both the rear and nose propellers. This will facilitate in-flight battery charging using the gasoline engine. This innovation is expected to increase operational flexibility and reduce the need for frequent recharging.
Although still in the demonstration and validation phase, the Electric EEL has demonstrated its value by consuming significantly less fuel compared to traditional aircraft and reducing maintenance costs by approximately 25% to 50%. With its latest record for flight duration, Ampaire’s hybrid electric aircraft is poised to contribute to addressing challenges related to range and flight time in the aviation industry, moving towards a more sustainable future.
