Paris Air Show visitors got a glimpse of what is claimed to be the world’s first-ever serial hybrid electric airplane this week in the DA36 E-Star, just two weeks after the aircraft made its successful first flight. The aircraft, developed by Siemens, Diamond Aircraft and EADS, is the first to employ a so-called serial hybrid electric drive.
The DA-36 E-Star’s propeller is powered by a 70 kW electric motor, which receives electricity from the aircraft’s small Wankel engine and generator. The aircraft, which was modeled off of the HK36 Super Dimona, relies on a battery to provide the extra power needed for takeoff and climb, and recharges it during cruise.
