Two electric powertrain systems for general aviation aircraft were launched this week, targeting kit plane builders, recreational pilots and the flight training market.
Everett, Washington State-based magniX unveiled its magniAIR air-cooled electric engine at the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida. The motor delivers 235hp (175kW) at a weight of 121 lb (55kg), which the company says represents best-in-class power-to-weight for its category.
Electric powertrain for kit planes and more
magniX is integrating the engine as part of a complete powertrain, including power electronics and the company’s Samson battery, into a Van’s Aircraft RV-10 kit plane. A first flight is scheduled for later this year, with the motor available to purchase in 2027.
The magniAIR is designed for experimental and light sport aircraft, as well as electric flight trainers, and can replace piston engines in the 160-235hp (120-175kW) range. New rules from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under its Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) program are expected to widen the definition of light sport aircraft, creating further market opportunities.
Ben Loxton, vice president of new product development at magniX, said, “Many training aircraft in use today were manufactured in the 1970s. Fuel prices and maintenance costs are causing the cost of flight training to rise at the same time as the industry faces an acute shortage of pilots. magniAIR offers to reduce the expense of flight training and other small aircraft applications with a lower cost of operation, reduced maintenance, and zero carbon emissions.”
H55 adds Safran ENGINeUS to electric B23 Energic program
Meanwhile, Swiss-based H55 are to integrate Safran’s ENGINeUS electric motor into its propulsion system for the fully electric Bristell B23 Energic. The collaboration is targetng European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for two- to six-seat aircraft under CS-23 and Part 23 regulations.
H55, founded as the technological legacy of the Solar Impulse program, has accumulated more than 2,000 hours of fully electric flight with zero battery-related incidents. Both companies have recently achieved key EASA certification milestones, with the ENGINeUS described as the only certified electric motor in the aviation market.
Safran will support prototype and serial production phases of the B23 aircraft, with production availability planned for next year.
Martin Bristela, CEO and co-founder of Bristell, said, “Flight schools from Europe to North America already build their fleets around the Bristell B23, a platform certified under both EASA and FAA and available across several engine configurations. Adding certified electric propulsion from H55 and Safran to this foundation means operators can transition to zero-emission training with minimal disruption. Same cockpit, same support network, new powertrain. That is a practical path to electric flight.”
