Airbus-sponsored electric airplane flies for the first time
Technology • May 2011 • Views: 710
An experimental electric airplane took to the skies above Germany in a maiden flight this week, showing the potential of technology that could one day result in a greener aviation industry.
The two-seat airplane, dubbed eGenius, flew for 20 minutes powered by a unique 60kW electric engine that centers around reducing carbon emissions.
With its 55-foot wingspan and helicopter-like fuselage, the odd-looking propeller plane is designed to travel a distance of up to 248 miles at a cruise speed of about 146 mph.