The 32-meter wingspan electric aircraft model X1 from Heart Aerospace can take off from short runways and carry 30 passengers.
Swedish startup Heart Aerospace is preparing for the first flight of its X1 model early next year. This is a test electric aircraft that is comparable in size to the company’s upcoming commercial 30-seat aircraft, New Atlas reported on November 28.
X1 aircraft model from Heart Aerospace. (Photo: Heart Aerospace).
“The initial test flight of the X1 is designed to evaluate the capabilities of advanced electric propulsion technology,” said Heart Aerospace. This will mark a significant milestone for the company based in Gothenburg, which was established in 2019 and has raised $145 million to reshape the regional aviation industry.
Heart Aerospace introduced the X1 in September, emphasizing that the vehicle has a wingspan of 32 meters, similar to the ES-30 model. The test flight will take off from Plattsburgh International Airport in New York, an ideal choice due to its low air traffic density and support for the development and testing of transportation technology. Heart Aerospace did not specify whether the X1 will have the same 200 km zero-emission range as the ES-30.
The commercial ES-30 can take off from short runways measuring around 1,100 meters thanks to its high-torque electric motor and turboprop engine. The vehicle will feature a hybrid system that allows for a total range of nearly 400 km. With a relatively short range and limited seating, Heart Aerospace is not aiming to replace major airlines but instead focuses on connecting smaller airports with areas of about 0.8 hectares.
The X1 will undergo comprehensive testing with key systems to ensure safe and successful flights. The Heart X2 model will learn from the first test aircraft and will test the company’s independent hybrid propulsion system in 2026.
In addition to Heart Aerospace, several other companies are also looking to make zero-emission commercial flying a reality. Back in January, Elysian announced the design of a small-body aircraft with long, low wings inspired by the 1960s, which can carry 90 passengers powered by a battery pack.
