We Fly: Bristell B23 Energic

Innovative electric airplane cruises with wired wings.

Max Trescott

Monday, September 15, 2025 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

A ramp view of the Bristell B23 Energic. [Courtesy: Christopher Michel]

Key Takeaways:

The Bristell B23 Energic, a two-seat electric trainer developed by BRM Aero and electric propulsion specialist H55, represents a significant step forward in electric aviation, offering a conventional flying experience with the key benefit of significantly reduced operating costs.
H55, a leader in electric propulsion, is not only behind the B23 Energic's advanced battery and motor system but is also actively involved in electrifying various other aircraft, from commercial planes to training fleets.
While the B23 Energic provides a 60-minute endurance plus reserve and consistent power at high altitudes, its current range is impacted by stricter U.S. FAA energy reserve requirements compared to EASA, delaying its broader U.S. introduction until 2027 with planned battery capacity increases.

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In 2011, I glimpsed the future, when I first saw an electric airplane fly at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Fourteen years later, I’ve finally flown an electric airplane for the first time. It’s the Bristell B23 Energic, which is now touring in the U.S. giving demonstration flights.

The airplane that flew at AirVenture was a twin-engine, experimental Lazair ultralight designed by Dale Kramer. Kramer removed the two gas engines and replaced them with electric motors. He opened the wings to show me that he had loaded them with perhaps a hundred or more lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries that were connected together to power the two electric motors.