First Chinese electric airplane ready for takeoff

China has its first national electric aircraft developed for mass production. The designers hope the new RX1E conquer a huge market in the country and abroad. "The RX1E is ready to receive your certificate of airworthiness of the Civil Aviation Administration of China before the end of 2014 and production should start next year," said Yang Fengtian, member of the Academy of Engineering of China. Yang made the remarks at the International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, popularly known as "Air Expo" held in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province.

"This will be the first electric aircraft to be certified by our authorities of civil aviation. This means that China has become a technology leader," he added. Yang, who also chairs the Shenyang Aerospace University in Liaoning, led the development of two-seater plane and the plane of light load. Two prototypes of the aircraft are in the air display. The aircraft is powered by two electric motors. The electricity comes from solar, ultracapacitors and issuers panels power or batteries.

Most electric airplanes are experimental demonstration models. The prime manned flight with an electric engine was made in 1973. "In three years, we plan to reach annual production of 100 aircraft. The construction of the factory RX1E has already begun in Shenyang," forward Yang, who estimates that the plane, along with a set of batteries, will sell for about 1 million yuan ($ 163,000). Ease of operation, easy maintenance, low operating costs, high levels of safety and environmental friendliness will attract many buyers because RX1E can serve a wide range of purposes, such as police patrols, training flight, personal transportation, aerial filming, among others.

 

Yang predicts that the Chinese market will need at least 1,000 RX1 year to meet the demand for aviation companies. With a maximum takeoff weight of 480 kg and a cruising speed of 160 kilometers per hour, the RX1E can fly 90 minutes with a complete cycle of your batteries. Every hour flight will cost just 20 yuan, including 5 yuan to charge the battery. Roland Bosch, one of the organizers of exhibitions known aircraft in Europe, said he came to China to invite the RX1E to be promoted in Germany.

"The design of RX1E and motor are very good. I think it will be a great success in the global market, as far as I know, is one of the best electric aircraft," said Bosch.