PHOTO CREDIT: ELECTRA AERO INC.
Electra.aero Inc. has selected Evolito, a developer of electric engines, generators, and fully-integrated electric propulsion systems for aerospace, to supply the electric propulsion units (EPUs) for Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150ft (45m).
Evolito will provide Electra with high-performance EPUs that integrate lightweight motors, high-integrity motor controllers, and advanced thermal controls. Engineered for aerospace-grade reliability and efficiency, these EPUs drive the eight propellers along the edge of the EL9’s wing. This distributed electric propulsion system enables the EL9’s ultra-high lift, delivering low airspeeds and precision landings.
“Our production contract with Evolito is a significant step forward for our vision for Direct Aviation – safe, quiet, and affordable air mobility that connects communities in ways never before possible,” said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra. “Evolito’s lightweight, durable, and cost-effective design will provide exceptional long-term value for operators through low maintenance, long life, and proven reliability.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Electra on the EL9, a game-changing aircraft that aligns perfectly with our mission to accelerate the transition to sustainable aviation,” said Dr. Chris Harris, CEO and co-founder of Evolito. “Our engine technology is designed for type-certification and scalable production, making it ideally suited to support Electra’s vision for clean, accessible, and efficient regional air travel.”
“Evolito’s EPUs deliver exceptional performance and reliability on a technology chassis with a proven heritage,” noted JP Stewart, Electra’s senior vice president, Product Development.
Electra’s nine-passenger EL9 Ultra Short combines patented blown-lift technology and distributed electric propulsion to take off and land within 150ft (45m), reducing noise and emissions. Using electric motors to blow air over the wing and large flaps significantly increases wing lift at very slow speeds, allowing the EL9 to take off and land in 1/10th of the space needed by conventional aircraft. Powered wind tunnel tests of the EL9’s blown wing have validated lift coefficients greater than 20, or 7x greater than the range typical of unblown wings.
EL9 first test flights are planned for 2027, with certification and commercial service entry anticipated in late 2029, into 2030 under FAA Part 23 regulations. With over 2,200 pre-orders from more than 60 commercial customers worldwide, including airlines and helicopter operators, the EL9 is already one of the most in-demand aircraft in the advanced air mobility (AAM) sector.
Evolito is a privately held company is based in Oxford, UK. Evolito’s investors include B-Flexion, Oxford Science Enterprises (OSE), and HostPlus.
Lockheed Martin Ventures, Honeywell, and Safran are among Electra's strategic investors along with Prysm Capital, Statkraft Ventures (Norway’s sovereign fund), the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC), and other private investors. Electra's contracted customers include NASA, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy.