The Takeoff of an Electric Aircraft in France
May 21, 2008
World First in France: The First Flight of an Electric Aircraft
December 23, 2007
This is a world first: the
APAME
,
Association for the Promotion of Electrically Propelled Aircraft
, achieved the first flight of the ELECTRA F-WMDJ aircraft, equipped with a 25 hp electric motor and lithium-polymer batteries.
This maiden flight took place on December 23rd from the Aspres-sur-Buëch airfield in the Hautes-Alpes. The electric aircraft flew for 48 minutes, covering 50 km in a closed circuit.
This exceptional experience in the recreational aviation sector offers an unprecedented alternative to current internal combustion engines for aircraft requiring 15 to 50 hp.
Aircraft Specifications:
Single-seat
Wingspan: 9 m
Length: 7 m
Empty weight without batteries: 134 kg
Maximum takeoff weight: 265 kg
Cruise speed: 90 km/h
Gliding ratio: 13
Construction: Wood and fabric
Electric Powerplant Specifications:
Industrial DC "brush" motor, 18 kW (25 hp)
Custom-designed power electronics
Lithium-polymer batteries (total mass: 47 kg)
Ground-adjustable ARPLAST propeller adapted to this propulsion system
Instrument panel, power control, motor mount, motor flange, etc., specifically developed and manufactured for this aircraft
About APAME
Founded in 2007 under the presidency of Anne LAVRAND, APAME aims to promote the design, construction, and use of electrically powered aircraft. The association had an ambitious goal of developing a small electric airplane. In August, APAME had already successfully flown a silent ultralight (see previous news).
Contact APAME
Phone: 04 92 57 99 40
Fax: 04 92 57 99 41
Website:
In China, electric bicycles are everywhere—even in Beijing. They are very affordable, unlike in France:
Electric Bike Gitane G-bike
Battery: Panasonic Ion-Lithium
Capacity: 8 Ah, 26 V
Range: 50 to 70 km
Three levels of assistance
Charging time: 3 hours
Motor: 180 W, located in the crankset
Frame: Aluminum city frame; size 45 cm
Fork: Steel
Saddle: Kinetic
Wheels: 26" aluminum
Brakes: V-brake front and rear
Gears: Nexus 3 with automatic shifting
Tires: 26 x 1.75
Dimensions: 175 x 65 cm
Weight: 22 kg
I found an advertisement
http://www.avem.fr/index.php?page=occasions_details&id=75
where this bike is offered second-hand, in new condition, for 1,350 euros. In China, the bike’s battery is removable. Users are accustomed to taking it out when returning from work and charging it at home, or at their workplace. This removable battery feature increases the vehicle’s range (which is already 50 to 70 kilometers depending on the model). When considering the ideal electric vehicle, several challenges arise. It would be beneficial if the vehicle were two-seater and capable of running errands. What we often forget, compared to small cars like the Smart, is that an electric vehicle is
completely pollution-free
and can therefore enter shopping galleries, use underground tunnels, and go... anywhere. We could even envision integrating such a system into intercity transport.
Moreover, there would be no issue equipping it with two different propulsion modes—one being a thermal engine as a backup system. Here is what I personally would recommend, inspired by Chinese motorized tricycles:
The Two-Person Electric Tricycle
This two-seater tricycle (inspired by its Chinese counterpart) is narrow and compact. The bodywork (in China made of lightweight alloy and plexiglass) is partially removable. The battery is larger than for a standard electric bicycle, but it includes a removable element that users can carry anywhere to charge. Charging points could be installed on street poles or in parking areas.
News
Guide (Index)
Home Page
