Electric propulsion designer Magnix, working alongside engineering and flight test specialist AeroTEC, said the Magnix Magni/500-powered Cessna 208B Caravan they launched last week is now the largest all-electric, zero emissions, passenger or cargo aircraft ever to fly. The Caravan test bed aircraft lifted off from Grant County International Airport in Moses Lake, Washington, for a 30-minute flight with the Magni 750 hp electric motor that AeroTec installed to replace the airplane’s standard Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 turboprop that generates 867 shp.
Electric Flight Takes Another Step Forward
Key Takeaways:
- Magnix and AeroTEC successfully flew a modified Cessna 208B Caravan, marking it as the largest all-electric, zero-emissions passenger or cargo aircraft to date.
- The 30-minute flight demonstrated the feasibility of electric propulsion for similar-sized aircraft on short routes, with Magnix targeting market readiness by late next year.
- A significant challenge remains as the test aircraft's cabin was largely occupied by two tons of batteries and cooling equipment, making it commercially unviable for passengers in its current configuration.
- This achievement follows Magnix's previous success in powering the world's first all-electric seaplane flight last year.
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