Diamond Aircraft reached a cooperation agreement that will see its all-electric training aircraft, eDA40, integrated with an ENGINeUS electric motor developed by Safran Electrical & Power.

The eDA40 is a derivative of the existing and certified DA40 platform. Diamond Aircraft expects the eDA40 will become the first EASA/FAA Part 23 certified electric airplane with Direct Current (DC) fast charging – capable of turning around a depleted aircraft in under 20 minutes.

Total flight time of the eDA40, which was first unveiled as Diamond development program in October 2021, is expected to be up to 90 minutes as the battery technologies evolve. The eDA40 is expected to reduce operating costs by up to 40 per cent when compared to traditional piston aircraft.

The ENGINeUS product line includes a range of electric motors with power outputs from single digit to 500 kW. The ENGINeUSTM 100, that will equip the eDA40, delivers 130 kW maximum at take-off power and features a fully integrated motor controller within the machine. The thermal management, explains Diamond, is provided by an optimized air-cooling system.

The certification of the electric motor is planned for mid-2023. Basic EASA certification for the eDA40 is expected at the end of 2023 or early 2024. First flights are scheduled for the end of 2022.

(Photo: Safran)