Tesla-Like Electric Aircraft Arrives—But, With Shorter Range Than Eviation's Claimed 600 Miles Coverage

The Tesla-like electric plane called Alice aircraft finally receives its production model. This means that Eviation, its developer, could soon start mass manufacturing the new electric airplane.

Dubbed as "Tesla of aircraft," Alice plane was first unveiled Eviation back in 2017. The giant aircraft creator claimed that it could have a range of around 600 miles or 965 kilometers.

However, the company clarified that its range is shorter than the recent estimation since it can only fly for about 400 miles. On the other hand, it can still accommodate around nine passengers, making it essential for some short regional flights.

"Alice, a nine-passenger, two-crew member aircraft, produces no carbon emissions, significantly reduces noise, and costs a fraction to operate per flight hour," said Eviation.

"The aircraft is powered by two magni650 electric propulsion units from magniX, the only flight proven electric propulsion systems at this scale," added the aircraft maker.

Tesla-Like Electric Aircraft's Details

Right now, different giant agencies and companies are creating their own plane models. These include NASA's X-59 and Virgin Galactic's supersonic aircraft.

However, most of them are still using regular plane fuel. Because of this, researchers and scientists are making efforts to create different alternatives for the normal aircraft fuel. One of these is the alleged NASA biofuels.

But, Eviation's method is different since it focuses on enhancing its new electric plane, which will rely on battery power. The giant plane developer explained that Alice aircraft will use a battery system based on the current battery cells, as reported by Electrek.

This means that the Tesla-like electric plane will not rely on future enhancements to function properly. On the other hand, Eviation also claimed that its battery system will allow pilots to control the electric aircraft easier and smoother compared to other regular passenger planes.

Alice Aircraft To Fly This 2021?

According to The Columbian's latest report, Eviation confirmed that Alice electric plane will have its first flight before 2021 ends. The Arlington-based commuter plane developer announced that it already finished the final design of the Tesla-like aircraft.

Because of this, Eviation is now preparing to conduct the first flight test of its electric plane. When it comes to the physical design, the company said that there are some dramatic changes.

One of these is the new T-shaped tail. On the other hand, the wingtip propellers were also removed since bent wingtips replaced them.

For more news updates about the new Tesla-like electric plane and upcoming aircraft of Eviation, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

This article is owned by TechTimes

Written by: Griffin Davis